Morrison, Whitclaw Reid A.M., M.D., and Laurence B. Chenoweth, A.B., M.D., Normal and Elementary Physical Diagnosis. 1st ed. 1928, Lea & Febiger, Philadelphia. “The subject should be exposed as much as possible because an efficient examination cannot be made unless he is undressed. Boys should be nude ...” (p. 20)
Second ed. 1932
“Ordinarily, boys should be nude for the examination. At times, however, a gown may be useful to protect them from the cold or to permit them to pass through corridors for various parts of the examination.” [pattern for gown follows] p. 21
Third ed. 1941
“Ordinarily, boys should be nude for the examination. Shorts may be worn when some clothing seems desireable. At times, however, a gown may be useful to protect them from the cold or to permit them to pass through corridors for various parts of the examination.” p. 14-15.
Fourth Ed. 1947. (same as 3rd) 12-13
Fifth Ed. 1955 (same as 3rd and 4th)
Deaver, George B., M.D. Fundamentals of Physical Examination,1939, W. B. Saunders Co., Philadelphia. “Gowns - The subject should be dressed so that the complete examination may be given without taking off or putting on clothing. This is not a problem with boys, as they can usually be examined in the nude. While the boys are being tested at various places, they can wear their short gymnasium pants and shoes, which can be removed when they reach the physician’s office.” p. 19
Rather than start a separate thread, I posted these interesting excerpts from older medical texts in this "boys vs. girls" thread.