Patient preferences for chaperone use during transvaginal sonography

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Patient Experience
• Gynecological Ultrasound

Background:

• Transvaginal sonography is a common gynecological imaging procedure.
• Patient comfort and preferences are crucial for a positive healthcare experience.
• Understanding patient needs regarding chaperones can improve care during transvaginal ultrasounds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine patient preferences for chaperone use during transvaginal sonography.
• To assess how sonographer gender influences the need for a chaperone.
• To evaluate if prior ultrasound experience affects chaperone preference.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of quality improvement survey data from 155 adult female patients.
• Surveys collected before and after transvaginal pelvic ultrasound at outpatient and inpatient centers.
• Statistical comparison of opinions using Chi-Square or Fisher's Exact test.

Main Results:

• 78% of respondents had prior transvaginal ultrasound experience.
• Significantly more patients preferred a chaperone if the sonographer was male (46% pre-exam, 43% post-exam) versus female (12% pre-exam, 6% post-exam).
• Reassurance from a chaperone if the sonographer was female was similar to embarrassment from a female chaperone.

Conclusions:

• Approximately half of women prefer a chaperone when the sonographer is male during transvaginal sonography.
• Chaperone necessity is generally not felt if the sonographer is female.
• Patient preferences regarding chaperones remain consistent before and after the procedure.