question about minors and a right to privacy during a prenatal exam...

[shrimpchips, LPN]

Part of my course requirement for my OB course is to participate in these online discussions. Our first assignment is a 5-question discussion and I'm having trouble with one of the questions. In the scenario, a 17 y.o. patient comes into the OB/GYN clinic thinking that she is pregnant. Her mother is with her and is asking to stay for the initial interview and the physical exam. As a nurse, how you would respond to the mother's request?

I thought that patients have a right to privacy so wouldn't the teen have a choice as to whether or not her mother stays in the room with her, even though she is a minor? Or because she is a minor, does it mean that her mother has to be with her if she chooses because her mother is responsible for the payment of medical care? I know if the minor was considered emancipated, it would be different, but Ohio does not have any emancipated minor laws...the only way to become emancipated from your parents is through legal marriage or by joining the military. I have been searching all over the internet for a clear answer and I haven't found anything. Any help would be appreciated or at least point me in the right direction.

[rachelgeorgina]

In Australia, minors (under the age of 18) are generally considered capable of making their own medical decisions between the ages of 14-16, even though, legally, they can't drive, drink, have sex, vote or anything of the like.

Doesn't matter who is paying for the consult, the patient in this situation has a right to privacy and confidentiality, even from her mother, if she so wishes, and it is the nurses role to a) educate her as such and b) advocate for the patient should any difficulties arise.

[Daytonite, BSN, RN]

Since this is about minor's right to privacy, I would ask the minor if she wants her mom in the room or not. I would also ask each to state the reason why they would want to mom to be present or absent. Get them both to talk and explain their position. Hopefully, they will each see the other's position and if you're lucky they will come to a compromise that is agreeable to both. If they don't then suggest some compromises and ask how both the mom and patient feel about them: the mom could be present for part of the exam but not all of it.

[FLmomof5]

I brought my 16 yo in for a GYN exam. I was asked by the NP to leave while she examined my daughter. I didn't have a problem with it. I have had MDs and RNs in the past (I have 3 girls) if I would object to a private exam and they would also look at my DD and say, "do you want your mom here?" The answers and body language will indicate the "real" feelings.

I think most would cooperate.