Learning needs and experiences of hospital nurses in genetic medicine in a rural area of Japan: A cross-sectional questionnaire survey in Oita prefecture

<i>Objective:</i> This study aimed to investigate hospital nurses' experiences in providing care to patients with genetic diseases and their families and to identify their educational needs regarding genetic medicine and genetic counseling in Oita Prefecture, a representative rural region of Japan. <i>Methods:</i> This cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted at ten cancer treatment hospitals in Oita Prefecture, including two central hospitals for cancer genomic medicine and eight regional hospitals, from October 11, 2021 to January 20, 2022. Of 1881 invited nurses, 1001 valid responses were analyzed. Data were collected using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire covering demographics, understanding of genetic terms, care experiences, and learning needs. <i>Results:</i> The respondents showed limited understanding of clinical genetics terminology, with fewer than 5 % having received genetics-related training. Only 8.6 % had experience in caring for patients and their families concerns about genetic diseases, and over 80 % of those felt inadequate. More than 70 % expressed a strong desire to learn about genetic medicine. <i>Conclusions:</i> Hospital nurses in rural Japan have significant learning needs in genetic medicine and genetic counseling. Educational programs tailored to regional backgrounds, along with collaboration with clinical genetic specialists, especially certified genetic counselors, could contribute to ensuring equitable and high-quality genetic healthcare service.