Pelvic floor examination performed by medical students: a model to obtain consent

Abstract

Student-led clinical examinations, including pelvic floor examinations, are an integral part of clinical training and can be beneficial to both students and patients alike. However, our experience and previous literature catalog numerous obstacles in obtaining consent for student-led pelvic floor examinations. Although some of these factors may not be modifiable, it is evident that efforts can be made to overcome those that are. An examination of these obstacles can help to provide a clear and succinct template to overcoming them: we propose a “5-Rs” framework that may bridge the apparent gap between the students’ need to practice and obtain valid consent.