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COPYRIGHT 2002 International Medical News Group
Although sometimes uncomfortable for the patient and clinician, a thorough reproductive history has an essential role in assessing a patient's knowledge and needs regarding reproduction and contraception.
The need for an accurate reproductive history increases substantially when a patient is a candidate for a teratogenic drug. Familiarity privacy, and confidentiality are key issues in ensuring the accuracy of the history, said Linda Dominguez, R.N.C., a nurse-practitioner and assistant medical director for Planned Parenthood of New Mexico.
"Use a vocabulary that is familiar to the patient to ensure her comprehension and the accuracy of her responses," said Ms. Dominguez. "Some patients, especially adolescents, are reluctant to discuss sexual matters [J Pediatr Health Care. 1996;10:217-220]. Therefore, you should conduct the interview in a...
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