Pap tests: what do women expect?

Stewart, Rebecca, and Thistlethwaite, Jill (2010) Pap tests: what do women expect? Australian Family Physician, 39 (10). pp. 775-778.

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Abstract

BACKGROUND: Women express various opinions regarding expectations and experiences of having Pap tests, particularly with regards to explanation of the procedure, its implications and results, and accompanied preventive health activities.

AIM: To explore patient expectations and experiences regarding Pap tests and associated screening activities.

METHODS: Semistructured interviews were conducted with volunteer female patients.

RESULTS: Twenty-four women were interviewed. There was variation in expectations regarding consultations for a Pap test, and also of the information given as to what is meant by a 'normal' result. Many women expressed a preference for a female and regular health professional to undertake their smear.

CONCLUSION: Recognition of general and individual barriers to cervical screening by health professionals will enhance patient access to, and acceptance of, screening activities. Understanding patient expectations regarding Pap tests ensures practitioners deliver health services with sufficient information and without false reassurance.

Item ID: 15617
Item Type: Article (Research - C1)
ISSN: 0300-8495
Keywords: mass screening, vaginal smears, uterine cervical neoplasms/prevention and control
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Copyright to Australian Family Physician. Reproduced with permission. Permission to reproduce must be sought from the publisher, The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners: www.afp.org.au

Date Deposited: 04 Mar 2011 06:56
FoR Codes: 11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1117 Public Health and Health Services > 111716 Preventive Medicine @ 50%
11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1114 Paediatrics and Reproductive Medicine > 111402 Obstetrics and Gynaecology @ 50%
SEO Codes: 92 HEALTH > 9204 Public Health (excl. Specific Population Health) > 920412 Preventive Medicine @ 50%
92 HEALTH > 9201 Clinical Health (Organs, Diseases and Abnormal Conditions) > 920102 Cancer and Related Disorders @ 50%
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