Identifying competence in the context of the pediatric anogenital exam.
OBJECTIVE
Appraisals of and concerns about the pediatric anogenital exam in order to promote a better understanding of predisposing factors that may underlie some people's adjustment to these exceptional circumstances.


METHODS
Thirty-three girls ages 8-15 and 82 adult guardians rated their acute exam appraisals and concerns using a 5-point Likert-type scale. Data were collected immediately after the anogenital exam at a pediatric outpatient clinic specializing in medical evaluations following allegations of child sexual abuse.


RESULTS
Participants reported relatively low levels of acute exam concerns as well as relatively high appraisals of the exam's importance and desirability, their ability to emotionally tolerate the exam, and optimism regarding the event's potential amelioration.


CONCLUSIONS
Data suggested the presence of specific competencies that may be instrumental in safeguarding children's and adult guardians' psychological well-being in the context of the pediatric anogenital exam.
Waibel-Duncan
Mary Katherine
MK
Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, Bloomsburg, PA, USA. mkwdunc@aol.com
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002650:Child Abuse, Sexual / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005260:Female; D005835:Genitalia; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011361:Professional Competence; D012007:Rectum