Student attitudes toward same-gender versus mixed-gender partnering in practicing physical examination skills

Students were surveyed to assess perceptions with regard to the use of same -gender and mixed-gender partnering in practicing physical examinations. Th ere was support for this arrangement, with students reporting that the prac tice provided an important learning experience with reasonable levels of co mfort and no loss of thoroughness and rigor Students did express some conce rns. Females tended to have lower comfort levels, particularly when they we re in the role of patient. Many of the concerns expressed could be addresse d with procedural changes during the assignment of partners, and the benefi ts of continuing this practice seem to outweigh any negative aspects.