Question

Judy Arksaw is a medical assistant for Mark Willows, MD. Judy faced a busy day scheduled with many clients and several annual physical exams.

During the busy  morning, Judy brought in an elderly woman by the name of Janice Coldwater for her

annual examination. Mrs. Coldwater liked Judy and felt comfortable and safe with her.

Mrs. Coldwater, who strongly disliked complete examinations, asked if Judy would be with her during the examination. Judy affirmed that fact. Judy prepped Janice for her examination and then left to care for other patients. Dr. Willows went into the examination room to speak with his patient, Janice. When he was ready to start the examination, he looked for Judy but she was unavailable. Dr. Willows completed the examination and Mrs. Coldwater left the clinic.

Twelve weeks later, Dr. Willows received a summons that he was being sued by Mrs. Coldwater for abuse during her annual physical examination.

1. What do you think prompted this action?

2. What could have avoided this court action?

3. What needs to be done to avoid this problem in the future?

Answer 1

Doctor- maek willos Medical assistamt Judy Aksau Patlemt-Janice Coldwates Ary 1.> Dr. willauy ecieiveol the Summon heng duing hee amual physical examinahan T could be Sued Mas Cold uoater tor abuse by om pted by the patlout's (Janice Colduwater) toill due to the tact that She abready strmgly dislikad complete examinetion She may be brought by Judy, the onedical assitaut fer her checkup and as sha was mot mesevt during the patlert's chacku he athent migt telt that she undergoes mental duorng the chockup anitry 2. This coust action could be avoidad making the fresemce of Judy o any female attendant uwshile examhmimg he patient witness t nothug torang has teen taken phe 3. In the tutue, Doctor Should not examine paheind Hemale) in absence of an'othes fermale Staff or atendaint. So that there will be prek at least one a