TY  - JOUR
PY  - 2010//
TI  - A normal ano-genital exam: sexual abuse or not?
JO  - Journal of Pediatric Health Care
A1  - Hornor, Gail
SP  - 145
EP  - 151
VL  - 24
IS  - 3
N2  - Sexual abuse is a problem of epidemic proportions in the United States. Pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) are at the forefront of providing care to children and families. The PNP is in a unique position to educate patients and families regarding sexual abuse and dispel common myths associated with sexual abuse. One such myth is that a normal ano-genital examination is synonymous with the absence of sexual abuse. This article will provide primary care providers, including PNPs, with a framework for understanding why a normal ano-genital examination does not negate the possibility of sexual abuse/assault. Normal ano-genital anatomy, changes that occur with puberty, and physical properties related to the genitalia and anus will be discussed. Photos will provide visualization of both normal variants of the pre-pubertal hymen and genitalia as well as changes that occur with puberty. Implications for practice for PNPs will be discussed.<p />  <p>Language: en</p>
LA  - en
SN  - 0891-5245
UR  - http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.pedhc.2008.10.007
ID  - ref1
ER  -