A patient with sinusitis requests a PAP smear she has not had in years. What is the appropriate response?

The appropriate response to the patient requesting a PAP smear is to schedule her to come back for the PAP. This choice acknowledges the importance of regular screenings for cervical cancer as part of women's health, and it allows for proper preparation and patient education prior to the procedure.

Scheduling the patient for a follow-up visit ensures that the healthcare provider can confirm the patient's readiness for the exam, assess any current health issues, and provide advice on the importance of the screening. It also allows time to discuss any changes in her health history or lifestyle since her last PAP, which is crucial for effectively interpreting the results.

While it may seem convenient to perform the PAP immediately, there may be considerations related to patient comfort, informed consent, and other clinical factors that necessitate a designated visit for the procedure. Thus, the option to perform the PAP during the same visit may not fully address the patient’s needs or ensure the best care approach.

Referring the patient to a gynecologist could be appropriate in some cases, but in many healthcare settings, primary care providers can perform PAP smears, making this referral unnecessary. A vaginal exam only, with referral for the PAP, does not give the patient the timely screening she is requesting, which is essential for early detection of