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Cervical Screening: Assessing Patient Anxiety, Janette Jones

Janette S. Jones

Severe stress reactions in female patients presenting for annual pelvic examination may occur for a variety of reasons, including previous sexual assault, post-traumatic stress disorder, and /or intimate partner violence. The clinician's approach to care delivery is critical for establishing trusting relationships with female patients exhibiting these types of reactions. A case study is used to describe assessment and communication techniques to improve care delivery.