Table 2 Stages, themes and categories

Stage one:

Anticipation of the level of embarrassment

Theme 1: Anticipation of acceptance by patient/family

• Environmental factors

• Patient factors

• Body parts

Theme 2: The level of self-confidence

• Skill proficiency

• Novice or senior

• Previous positive/negative experiences

Stage two:

Deciding on the process/Do it or not do it

Theme 3: Getting permission

• Affirming patient and family wishes

• Communicating and negotiating

Theme 4: Assessing situation and resources

• Female nursing staff available

• Family member accompany

Stage three:

Protecting both parties and dealing with embarrassment

Theme 5: Protecting both parties

• Maintaining patient privacy

• Requesting a chaperone

• Pre-announcing

Theme 6: Dealing with embarrassing atmosphere

• Comforting the patient

• Talking professionally

• Remaining silent and doing it right and fast

Theme 7: Turning to female colleagues for help