Mr. Abdul is a 40-year-old Middle Eastern man who presents to the office for a first visit with the complaint of new abdominal pain. You are concerned about violating a cultural prohibition when you prepare to do his rectal examination. The best tactic would be to:
A) forego the examination for fear of violating cultural norms.
B) ask a colleague from the same geographic area if this examination is acceptable.
C) inform the patient of the reason for the examination and ask if it is acceptable to him.
D) refer the patient to a provider more knowledgeable about cultural differences.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Asking, if you are not sure, is far better than making a damaging mistake. Not completing the examination could cause the patient further harm. Asking a colleague from the same geographic area if this examination is acceptable may not be appropriate. Referring the patient to a provider more knowledgeable about cultural differences at this point is unnecessary.

Mr Abdul Is a 40-Year-Old Middle Eastern Man Who Presents