Sickle Cell Trait: What Every Nurse Practitioner Should Know

Sickle cell trait is a carrier state for the β-chain sickle hemoglobin mutation. Individuals with sickle cell trait have normal life expectancy and no symptoms of sickle cell disease, with the exception of some rare but serious complications such as renal abnormalities, venous thromboembolism, and exercise-related injuries. Sickle cell trait has important reproductive consequences, with a risk of having a child with sickle cell disease. Nurse practitioners should be aware of the screening, potential complications, and routine management of individuals with sickle cell trait in order to provide evidence-based care to this population.     

Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing: What the Nurse Practitioner Should Know

Direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing is a $3 billion-per-year business. There are many concerns about the accuracy of information given to patients who go online to obtain genetic testing, especially because these tests can be performed and results sent to patients without the assistance of a health care provider. Nurse practitioners (NPs) should be aware of DTC genetic testing and the associated problems. NPs should also be able to advise, counsel, and educate patients about genetics and genetic testing.