Confirm patient's understanding and obtain consent for examination
2
Ensure patient is positioned appropriately in the left lateral position
3
Prepare examination gloves and lubricant
4
Perform hand hygiene and wear examination gloves
5
Inspector visually observes the perianal area for abnormalities
6
Gently palpate the perianal area with non-dominant hand
7
Lubricate the index finger of the dominant hand and slowly insert into the rectum
8
Evaluate the rectum and prostate by gently rotating the finger in a circular motion
9
Detect any abnormalities such as nodules or tenderness during the examination
10
Gently remove the finger and inspect the glove for traces of blood or abnormal stool
11
Dispose off the examination gloves and perform hand hygiene
12
Record the findings of the examination
13
Discuss findings with the patient and plan next steps if required
14
Approval: Physician's Examination Findings
Confirm patient's understanding and obtain consent for examination
Engage in a conversation with the patient to ensure their understanding of the examination and obtain their informed consent. Emphasize the importance of the examination in diagnosing and monitoring their health. Address any questions or concerns they may have.
1
Yes
2
No
Ensure patient is positioned appropriately in the left lateral position
Guide the patient to lie on their left side with their knees tucked towards their chest. Help them get comfortable and ensure their privacy and dignity are maintained throughout the process.
1
Patient lies on left side
2
Knees tucked towards chest
3
Patient is comfortable
Prepare examination gloves and lubricant
Gather the necessary examination gloves and lubricant in preparation for the digital rectal examination. Ensure they are within reach and readily available for use.
Perform hand hygiene and wear examination gloves
Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water, ensuring all areas are properly cleaned. Dry your hands and put on a new pair of examination gloves to maintain a sterile environment during the examination.
Inspector visually observes the perianal area for abnormalities
Carefully examine the perianal area for any external abnormalities, such as rashes, lesions, or hemorrhoids. Use a good source of lighting to aid in visualization.
Gently palpate the perianal area with non-dominant hand
Using your non-dominant hand, softly feel and palpate the perianal area for any abnormalities. Be gentle to prevent any discomfort or pain to the patient. Note any findings for further evaluation.
Lubricate the index finger of the dominant hand and slowly insert into the rectum
Apply a generous amount of lubricant to your dominant hand's index finger. Slowly and gently insert your lubricated finger into the patient's rectum to assess the internal structures.
Evaluate the rectum and prostate by gently rotating the finger in a circular motion
Once the finger is inserted into the rectum, systematically rotate it in a circular motion to thoroughly evaluate the rectum and prostate gland. Note any abnormalities or areas of concern.
Detect any abnormalities such as nodules or tenderness during the examination
Continuously assess the rectum and prostate for any unusual findings. Take note of any nodules, masses, tenderness, or other abnormalities that may require further investigation.
Gently remove the finger and inspect the glove for traces of blood or abnormal stool
Carefully withdraw your finger from the patient's rectum. Inspect the glove for any signs of blood, abnormal stool, or other concerning substances. Dispose of the glove appropriately.
Dispose off the examination gloves and perform hand hygiene
Discard the used examination gloves in a proper waste receptacle. Perform thorough hand hygiene by washing your hands with soap and water, ensuring all areas are properly cleaned.
Record the findings of the examination
Document the findings of the digital rectal examination in the patient's medical record. Include any abnormalities, observations, or concerns discovered during the examination.
Discuss findings with the patient and plan next steps if required
Engage in a conversation with the patient to discuss the findings of the examination. Ensure they fully understand the results and any necessary next steps. Address any questions or concerns they may have and provide appropriate recommendations or referrals.
Approval: Physician's Examination Findings
Will be submitted for approval:
Inspector visually observes the perianal area for abnormalities
Will be submitted
Gently palpate the perianal area with non-dominant hand
Will be submitted
Lubricate the index finger of the dominant hand and slowly insert into the rectum
Will be submitted
Evaluate the rectum and prostate by gently rotating the finger in a circular motion
Will be submitted
Detect any abnormalities such as nodules or tenderness during the examination
Will be submitted
Gently remove the finger and inspect the glove for traces of blood or abnormal stool
Will be submitted
Dispose off the examination gloves and perform hand hygiene
Will be submitted
Record the findings of the examination
Will be submitted
Discuss findings with the patient and plan next steps if required
