GTC4.2014 Use multi-generational family history information to draw a pedigree

Overview

This standard is about using the multi-generational family history gathered from an individual and their family members to draw up a pedigree using internationally recognised symbols and nomenclature. Users of this standard will need to ensure that practice reflects up to date information and policies. Version No 2

Knowledge and Understanding

You will need to know and understand:

1. how to translate family history information into a pedigree
2. internationally recognised pedigree symbols and their relationship to each other
3. the standard convention of laying out a pedigree
4. the role of the pedigree as a means of representing multi-generational family history information
5. best practice guidelines relevant to pedigrees
6. record keeping practices and procedures in relation to drawing a pedigree
7. consent and confidentiality guidelines in relation to an individual's clinical records

Performance Criteria

You must be able to do the following:

1. ensure sufficient and appropriate multi-generational family history is available so that you can draw the pedigree in as much detail as required
2. clarify family history details, if the need arises, with the individual who gave the information or from others, ensuring that appropriate consent has been obtained
3. use the standard convention for laying out a pedigree
4. use appropriate internationally recognised symbols and notations for drawing:
1. the relationship of individuals to the person seeking information
2. gender
3. alive or deceased
4. their disease status
5. on-going and unsuccessful pregnancies
5. provide a key for each of the different symbols
6. add personal information as appropriate and ensure the drawing is legible
7. write your name legibly, sign and date the pedigree
8. maintain the chain of confidentiality of records when using or passing on the pedigree

Additional Information

This National Occupational Standard was developed by Skills for Health. This standard links with the following dimension within the NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework (October 2004): Dimension: HWB2 Assessment and care planning to meet people's health and wellbeing needs and IK2 Information collection and analysis