Can nurse do a pelvic exam?

In the United States, the ability for nurses to perform pelvic exams varies by state. Each state has its own scope of practice for nurses, which outlines what procedures they are authorized to perform. In some states, nurses may only perform pelvic exams if they have completed additional training and certification. In other states, nurses may be authorized to perform pelvic exams without any additional training.

In order to find out if nurses are able to perform pelvic exams in your state, you can contact your state's board of nursing. The board of nursing will be able to provide you with information on the scope of practice for nurses in your state.

It is important to note that even in states where nurses are authorized to perform pelvic exams, they may not be able to do so in all settings. For example, some hospitals and clinics may only allow physicians to perform pelvic exams.

If you are uncomfortable with a nurse performing a pelvic exam, you have the right to request that a physician perform the exam instead.