Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

When counseling a client considering purchasing a genetic testing kit online, what should the nurse emphasize?

1. It is illegal to purchase genetic testing kits from Internet vendors.

2. It will be important to follow up with a health care provider after receiving your results.

3. Many times online vendors experience inaccuracies with their results.

4. Internet vendors use the latest technology to perform these tests.

The correct answer is: It will be important to follow up with a health care provider after receiving your results.

Emphasizing the importance of following up with a healthcare provider after receiving genetic test results is crucial for several reasons. Genetic testing can provide valuable information about an individual's health risks, predispositions to certain conditions, and potential implications for family members. However, the interpretation of these results often requires specialized knowledge that healthcare professionals possess. Healthcare providers can help clients understand what the test results mean in the context of their overall health, guide them in potential next steps, and provide resources for further information or counseling. This guidance is essential, especially since genetic information can lead to significant emotional responses and decisions about lifestyle, treatment options, or family planning. Moreover, a provider can offer a comprehensive view of the individual's health history and provide personalized care that the test results alone cannot. While the other choices address relevant concerns, they do not encapsulate the holistic approach and importance of professional medical advice when interpreting genetic test results.