The nurse popped in to let me know the next patient was already in the exam room, waiting. I made a few last minute notes in my office on the study progress before grabbing my clipboard and heading down the hall to the latest patient.
At the exam room door I knocked – standard procedure – and heard a mumbled “come in”…in that awkward response way of patients who somehow feel like it’s their room, but not at all their room. I get that. I’ve been a patient, too.
After cursory introductions I told her we’re doing a full exam of female bodies as part of a longitudinal study on female sexuality. The first of its kind. Just an assessment exam, but thorough. Did I mention it’s thorough? It’s thorough.
I began the exam asking her to sit up while slid my cold stethoscope on her back, first somewhat high , then lower. I felt her wince and giggle, which punched my ears. I asked her to take deep breaths. Everything sounded fantastic, and I let her know. I moved to stand in front of her as she sat on the exam table, assessing her face and jawline – I gently palpated below her jaw, down her neck, along her collar bone. I felt her breathe deep and relax as she closed her eyes. I have a gently touch, something I pride myself in as part of my overall bedside manner.