Evidence leads to the conclusion that the genogram is an assessment tool that enhances intervention strategy and communication in the client's record. The usefulness of the genogram is not new, but it is reviewed here for its value to the nurse practitioner. Two hypothetical case illustrations utilizing the genogram are presented, one presenting only medical problems, the other presenting medical, psychiatric and family relationships. The theoretical background of Bowen's family system theory and of systems theory is reviewed as the genogram evolved from the theories. Imagine a genogram as a family tree with much more detail about how the family members interact with one another. A genogram includes information about relationships and interactions between family members, while a family tree only depicts lineage. It records the family in its life cycle, family illnesses and relationships. The nurse practitioner from any area of practice, primary care, women's health, paediatrics, geriatrics, psychiatry, in any setting (hospital, clinic, school, industry, community and home), requires a tool that provides a comprehensive assessment of the client and the factors that affect their health. A genogram is structurally similar to a family tree, but serves a very different purpose. Genogram The genogram is a biopsychosocial family tree. This paper presents the genogram, originated by family therapists and utilized in the psychosocial field, as a valuable tool to be used by the nurse practitioner.
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