Annual Exams

Examinations--What to Expect

Routine data and lab tests include:

height

weight

blood pressure

hematocrit (blood test, as indicated)

Pap test (women)

chlamydia test

gonorrhea test (as indicated)

stool guiac (stool sample, if over 40 years of age)

Review of medical history

Female exam may include:

• skin inspection
• thyroid palpation
• heart and lung auscultation (listening with a stethoscope)
• costovertebral angle (chest wall) tenderness assessment
• breast exam and instruction in breast self-examination
• abdominal inspection
• pelvic exam
• rectal exam

Male exam may include:

• skin inspection
• thyroid palpation
• heart and lung auscultation
• CVA (chest wall) tenderness assessment
• genital exam
• rectal and prostate exam

Pap tests
A Pap test is a screening method for cervical cancer. A Pap test is done by taking some cells from the cervix. The cells are studied under a microscope for signs of change. A Pap test also helps to detect infections.

Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Screening
If a patient has symptoms of an STI or wishes to be screened for precautionary purposes, the following are tests that PPGI clinics offer:

• Chlamydia and Gonorrhea: testing can be done on a simple urine specimen, without requiring a physical exam.
• Syphilis: This is a blood test. Results usually are available within 2 weeks.
• HPV (genital warts or condyloma): This is a visual exam. Warts have to be present to be treated.
• Herpes (HSV II): The testing for this is sampling an open sore or blister.
• HIV: This is a test in which cells are taken from the mouth. Results usually are available in 2 weeks.

Infection Screening
If a patient has symptoms of a vaginal infection, a test is done to screen for:

• Yeast infection
• Bacterial vaginosis
• Trichomoniasis

Screening for Urinary Tract Infection The patient's urine is tested for infection.

Birth Control
(The following require a clinician or nurse to initiate or continue the method.)

• DMPA  injections
• Diaphragm fitting
• IUD insertion and removal
• Birth Control Pills
• Emergency Contraception (ECPs)
   

Pregnancy Testing and Educational Information
Urine pregnancy testing is offered at each PPGI clinic. Educational information about pregnancy options is available:

• Continuing pregnancy, prenatal care
• Continuing pregnancy, prenatal care, placing baby for adoption
• Terminating pregnancy

Pre-pregnancy planning information is also available.

Colposcopy (for evaluating abnormal Pap test results)

Prenatal Care (for pregnant women)

Menopause Services (including hormone replacement therapy)

Breast Exams (evaluation of masses and pain)