If you are unsure of a patient’s religious or cultural needs regarding physical touch or skin exposure, what is the appropriate action?

• A. Ignore differences and proceed as usual
• B. Ask them
• C. Refer to another clinician without discussion
• D. Assume their preferences based on demographics

Answer: (B)

Respecting patient autonomy and cultural or religious considerations means asking about their preferences before any physical touch or skin exposure. When you’re unsure about what a patient is comfortable with, directly asking shows that you value their beliefs and boundaries, avoids making assumptions, and provides a clear path to tailor the care to their needs. Approach this with sensitivity: choose a private, calm moment and use simple, open language, for example, “Are there any beliefs or practices I should know about that affect how we touch you or expose skin during care?” Involve an interpreter if language is a barrier, and document their preferences so all members of the care team honor them going forward.

Other approaches, like proceeding without discussion, guessing based on demographics, or referring to someone else without discussing the patient’s wishes, undermine patient autonomy and can cause distress or unsafe care.