Fundamental and situational components in a strategy for attaining a positive patient experience of the pelvic examination: A conceptual approach

Since 1983, researchers in medicine, behavior, and health care have been involved in collaborative work concerning attitudes toward the pelvic examination (PE). Important components of the analysis are social actions and conduct, which are conceptualized from role theory. The outcome of the PE is determined by both fundamental and situational components. The purpose is to discover optimal environmental conditions under which the PE should be performed. The medical profession has a long history, primarily established within hospitals. Professional performance has been directed toward diagnosis and cure; consequently, a particularistic view dominates. Throughout history the midwifery profession has had the primary task of supporting the woman in confinement. The dominant view of the midwifery profession is universalistic. The strategy we present is an approach for conceptualizing the bases determining the PE situation. It is a distinct step toward finding gynecological practices that may create positive patient experience of the PE.