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  2. Tips on - Performing a...
  3. Tips on - Performing a speculum examination
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Tips on - Performing a speculum examination

BMJ 2005; 331 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/sbmj.0512458a (Published 01 December 2005) Cite this as: BMJ 2005;331:0512458a
  1. Shreelata Datta, senior house officer in obstetrics and gynaecology1
  1. 1Hillingdon Hospital, London

A vaginal examination is a very intimate and personal examination. It's also an essential skill for medical students doing obstetrics and gynaecology. Here's a look at how to make sure that all goes smoothly.

Before you start

  • Introduce yourself, explain what you are going to do and why

  • Check if the patient is pregnant

  • Get verbal consent

  • Make sure you are in a private room, and the patient is comfortable

  • Ask the patient to empty her bladder …

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