Explanation of exam and evidence collection procedures

Explain exam and evidence collection procedures to patients.  Whatever the methods used for seeking informed consent from patients for the exam and evidence collection, the full nature of procedures and options should be explained. Examiners may provide some basic information prior to starting the exam and additional information as the exam proceeds. For example, if the colposcope is used, examiners can explain to patients, at some point prior to its use, what the colposcope is, how it will be used, for what purpose, and how long the procedure will take. Encourage patients to ask questions and to inform examiners if they need a break or do not want a particular part of the exam or evidence collection done. (For more information on obtaining informed consent of patients, see A.3. Informed Consent.)


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