At the conclusion of genetic testing, a patient learns that he has a predisposition for developing cardiovascular disease at a young age. What should the nurse instruct the patient regarding this information?

Question

1. "This information can help guide you to make lifestyle changes to reduce the chance of developing cardiovascular disease."
2. "At least you know now that you will need cardiac bypass surgery."
3. "Since you will most likely develop the disease early in life, enjoy your life as much as possible now."
4. "I would not place too much emphasis on these test results because most of the time they are inconclusive."

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1

One benefit of genetic testing is that it allows for preventive measures and lifestyle adaptations. The nurse should instruct the patient on how this information can serve as a guide to make lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The nurse has no way of knowing whether the patient is going to need cardiac bypass surgery or not. The nurse should not encourage the patient to enjoy life as much as possible now since this might lead to high-risk behaviors. The nurse should not minimize the importance of the genetic testing results.