Final answer:
A nurse would collect a patient's sexual history before performing a genital examination. This approach ensures an understanding of the patient's sexual health. Awareness of sexual orientation typically emerges in early adolescence according to research.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse would typically obtain a patient's sexual history before conducting a genital examination. This is important for establishing a baseline of sexual health, identifying any potential risks, and clarifying any symptoms that may relate to the genital exam. During this time, respect for the patient's privacy and comfort should be a priority, and open-ended questions are often used to facilitate communication.
To answer the research question indicated, most research suggests that individuals become aware of their sexual orientation in early adolescence. This developmental period is generally marked by a growing sense of self-identity, which includes sexual orientation awareness.