reproductive health services for adolescents - Pathfinder International

Module 16
• Clients make their own decisions. Clients always select from the available procedures
and methods for which they are medically eligible.
Adapted from: Hatcher, R.A., W. Rinehart, R. Blackburn, and J.S. Geller. 1997. The essentials of contraceptive
technology. Baltimore, MD: Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Population Information Program.
CLIENT RIGHTS DURING FACILITY ASSESSMENT
In order to present a consistent philosophy of client rights, the following information should be
shared with participants in preparation for their clinical assessment experiences. The rights of
the client to privacy and confidentiality should be considered at all times during a clinical
assessment. When a client is undergoing a physical examination, it should be carried out in
an environment in which her/his right to bodily privacy is respected. When receiving
counseling, undergoing a physical examination, or receiving surgical contraceptive services,
the client should be informed about the role of each individual inside the room (e.g. service
provider, individuals undergoing training, supervisors, instructors, researchers, etc.).
The client’s permission must be obtained before having a participant observe any services.
The client should understand that s/he has the right to refuse being observed or interviewed
by a participant. Furthermore, a client’s care should not be rescheduled or denied if s/he
does not permit a participant to be present.
It can be difficult to maintain strict client confidentiality in a training situation when specific
cases are used in learning exercises such as case studies and clinical conferences. Such
discussions always should take place in a private area, out of hearing of other staff and
clients, and should be conducted without reference to the client by name.
Source: Sullivan, R., R. Magarick, G. Bergthold, A. Blouse, and N. McIntosh. 1995. Clinical training skills for
reproductive health professionals. Baltimore: JHPIEGO Corporation.
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Adolescent Curriculum