How to relieve the embarrassment of having to take off clothes for examination

In the practice of imaging examinations, when it comes to examining private parts such as the chest, pelvis, breast, urethra, etc., embarrassing situations are bound to occur. The following is a brief discussion of this medical ethical phenomenon combined with several common problems encountered during imaging examinations.

Asked to undress?

Remove artifact interference and improve image clarity.

For example, a lady couldn't calm down for a long time after taking a chest X-ray. Why did the doctor ask her to take off her bra and be topless for the examination? Can't X-rays penetrate clothes?

It should be noted here that these are purely requirements of imaging inspection technology, namely to remove artifact interference and improve image clarity. As a patient, you should believe that the doctor abides by professional ethics and actively cooperate with the doctor's examination. Of course, medical staff should also pay attention to protecting patients' privacy and avoid public exposure. At the same time, you should consider the patient's feelings in this regard and avoid using harsh language such as "take off clothes".

Being touched by a doctor?

Accurately position, locate, and assist in diagnosis.

For example, when performing a mammogram, the camera technician will push on the breast, and the diagnosing doctor will inspect and palpate the breast while observing the image. For example, when taking photos of the pelvis, hip joint, and thoracic spine, private organs such as the pubic bone and sternum may be touched. If the reason needs to be explained, I think this is a reasonable requirement for accurate positioning, location, and assistance in diagnosis. Of course, medical staff should try to wear gloves when performing these operations, but palpation is an exception and must be done with bare hands.

Refusing to be accompanied by family members?

Try to avoid exposure to irrelevant personnel.

For example, when a male technician takes a chest X-ray of a female patient, he will ask the person accompanying the patient to leave the examination room to avoid unnecessary exposure of the accompanying person. However, some accompanying persons may feel puzzled and may even cause medical disputes. The author believes that it is necessary to briefly explain to the patient and the accompanying personnel before the examination: "X-rays are harmful to the human body. In order to avoid unnecessary radiation, please leave the examination room. Please rest assured that we will examine the patient carefully." If the accompanying personnel strongly request to enter the escort, the medical staff can express understanding and take out protective equipment for the accompanying personnel to wear before conducting relevant examinations.