Chapter 23: The Gynecologic Examination and Prenatal Care

What is the purpose of the gynecologic examination? - Answer-The purpose of a gynecologic examination is to assess the health of the female reproductive organs to detect early signs of disease, leading to early diagnosis and treatment. What is the purpose of performing a breast examination? - Answer-The purpose of performing a breast examination is to check for abnormalities or lumps that might indicate breast cancer. 3. How often should a woman perform a breast self-examination at home? When should it be performed in relation to the menstrual cycle and why? - Answer-Women 20 years of age or older should examine their breasts once every month. If a woman has regular periods, examinations should be done approximately 2 to 3 days after the menstrual period has ended. This is because the breasts are least likely to be tender or swollen, which make it easier to perform the examination. What are the components of the pelvic examination? - Answer-The pelvic examination consists of inspection of the external genitalia, vagina, and cervix, it also involves a collection of a specimen for a pap test, bimanual pelvic examination, and a rectal-vaginal examination. What position is generally used for the pelvic examination? - Answer-For the pelvic examination, the patient is positioned in the lithotomy position. How can the medical assistant help the patient to relax during the pelvic examination? - Answer-The medical assistant can help the patient relax during the examination by telling her to breathe deeply, slowly, and evenly through the mouth. What is the function of a vaginal speculum? - Answer-The function of a vaginal speculum is to hold the walls of the vagina apart to allow visual inspection of the vagina and cervix. What is the purpose of performing a visual examination of the vagina and the cervix? - Answer-The purpose of performing a visual examination of the vagina and the cervix to inspect for color, lacerations, ulcerations, tenderness, nodules and discharge. If there is an abnormal condition present, the physician will obtain a specimen for laboratory evaluation and test for pathologic conditions such as trichomoniasis, candidiasis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. What are three examples of vaginal infections that cause a discharge? - Answer-Vaginal infections that cause a discharge are chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis.