|
Home > Graduate Programs in Genetic Counseling > Competencies
Competencies
Domain I: Communication Skills
- Can establish a mutually agreed upon genetic counseling agenda with the client.
The student is able to contract with a client or family throughout the relationship; explain the genetic counseling process; elicit expectations, perceptions and knowledge; and establish rapport through verbal and non-verbal interaction.
- Can elicit an appropriate and inclusive family history.
The student is able to construct a complete pedigree; demonstrate proficiency in the use of pedigree symbols, standard notation, and nomenclature; structure questioning for the individual case and probable diagnosis; use interviewing skills; facilitate recall for symptoms and pertinent history by pursuing a relevant path of inquiry; and in the course of this interaction, identify family dynamics, emotional responses, and other relevant information.
- Can elicit pertinent medical information including pregnancy, developmental, and medical histories.
The student is able to apply knowledge of the inheritance patterns, etiology, clinical features, and natural history of a variety of genetic disorders, birth defects, and other conditions; obtain appropriate medical histories; identify essential medical records and secure releases of medical information.
- Can elicit a social and psychosocial history.
The student is able to conduct a client or family interview that demonstrates an appreciation of family systems theory and dynamics. The student is able to listen effectively, identify potential strengths and weaknesses, and assess individual and family support systems and coping mechanisms.
- Can convey genetic, medical, and technical information including, but not limited to, diagnosis, etiology, natural history, prognosis, and treatment/management of genetic conditions and/or birth defects to clients with a variety of educational, socioeconomic, and ethnocultural backgrounds.
The student is able to demonstrate knowledge of clinical genetics and relevant medical topics by effectively communicating this information in a given session.
- Can explain the technical and medical aspects of diagnostic and screening methods and reproductive options including associated risks, benefits, and limitations.
The student is able to demonstrate knowledge of diagnostic and screening procedures and clearly communicate relevant information to clients. The student is able to facilitate the informed-consent process. The student is able to determine client comprehension and adjust counseling accordingly.
- Can understand, listen, communicate, and manage a genetic counseling case in a culturally responsive manner.
The student can care for clients using cultural self-awareness and familiarity with a variety of ethnocultural issues, traditions, health beliefs, attitudes, lifestyles, and values.
- Can document and present case information clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, as appropriate to the audience.
The student can present succinct and precise case-summary information to colleagues and other professionals. The student can to write at an appropriate level for clients and professionals and produce written documentation within a reasonable time frame. The student can demonstrate respect for privacy and confidentiality of medical information.
- Can plan, organize, and conduct public and professional education programs on human genetics, patient care, and genetic counseling issues.
The student is able to identify educational needs and design programs for specific audiences, demonstrate public speaking skills, use visual aids, and identify and access supplemental educational materials.
| | Table of Contents Next >> | |
|
|