# Changes in Italian Nurses' Genetic Knowledge and Perceptions Over a Decade

## TL;DR

Italian nurses have improved basic genetic knowledge over a decade but still struggle to apply it in practice, highlighting the need for better education.

## Contribution

The study compares genetic knowledge and perceptions among Italian nurses in 2023 with data from 2011, revealing progress and persistent gaps.

## Key findings

- 78.9% of nurses correctly answered at least four of five genetics questions in 2023, up from 60.5% in 2011.
- Only 8.3% of nurses reported high confidence in using genetics in their work, with low perceived relevance to nursing.
- 30.6% of nurses expressed strong interest in receiving more genetics education to support their practice.

## Abstract

Genetic knowledge is increasingly important in nursing, yet often seen as of limited relevance. This study examines Italian nurses' genetic knowledge and perceived relevance, comparing current findings with data from a 2011 survey. A cross‐sectional survey was carried out using a self‐administered questionnaire. A total of 504 nurses (95.1% of individuals logged in) completed the survey. Among those, 78.9% correctly answered at least four of five questions on Genetics knowledge, compared to 60.5% in 2011. There were no significant differences in knowledge by age or academic qualifications. A minority of respondents (26.9%) believed Genetics was highly relevant to the nursing role (26.8% in 2011) and only 8.3% of those reported high confidence in using genetics in their daily work (7.3%). Despite low perceived relevance, 30.6% expressed strong interest in receiving more education to support their practice and 56.1% indicated interest, though not as a high priority, compared to 44.9% and 41.3%, respectively, in 2011. Overall, although knowledge has improved over time, it remains insufficient to support confidence and integration into practice, highlighting the need for targeted genetic education in nursing.

Studies carried out in 2011‐2012 found Italian nurses had limited genetic knowledge.Italian nurses know basic genetics but face challenges in applying it in practice.Findings support stronger, practice‐oriented genetics education for Italian nurses.

Studies carried out in 2011‐2012 found Italian nurses had limited genetic knowledge.

Italian nurses know basic genetics but face challenges in applying it in practice.

Findings support stronger, practice‐oriented genetics education for Italian nurses.