Nurses are increasingly being asked to provide information when a genetic diagnosis is made, whether to the individual patient or to members of his or her family. This book provides a comprehensive introduction to present day genetic services, to help professionals feel more confident when dealing with queries or advising where to go for further information.

Comprehensive case studies are used to explain the various models of inheritance and explore the possibilities for families, following genetic diagnosis. Family history-taking, risk assessment, basic biology of chromosomes and genes, and laboratory techniques are all described. Issues of ethnicity and ethics are addressed. The book also discusses the development of the role of the genetic nurse counselor.