Chaperone Guide
Introduction
This guide is designed to help staff understand their roles and responsibilities when acting as a chaperone during intimate examinations at Future Care Medical. The presence of a chaperone is meant to ensure the dignity, safety, and comfort of patients, while also protecting healthcare professionals. It is essential that staff follow this guide to ensure that both patients and staff are supported appropriately during intimate procedures.
What is an Intimate Examination?
Intimate examinations include any physical examinations where close proximity to the patient’s body is required, particularly areas that are sensitive or private. This often includes but is not limited to, examinations of the breasts, genitalia, or rectum. In some cases, even examinations that require the healthcare professional to be very close to the patient (such as abdominal palpations) may be considered intimate by the patient.
When to Offer a Chaperone
- A chaperone should be offered before any intimate examination, regardless of the gender of the patient or the healthcare professional.
- The patient has the right to request a chaperone or decline one if they choose.
- If the patient declines a chaperone, this decision should be respected, but it must be clearly documented in the medical record.
Role of the Chaperone
- Maintaining Patient Dignity: Ensure the patient’s dignity is preserved throughout the examination by being sensitive, respectful, and discreet.
- Providing Reassurance: If the patient shows signs of distress or discomfort, the chaperone should provide verbal reassurance and monitor the situation.
- Observing the Procedure: The chaperone should be familiar with the procedure being performed and be able to observe the examination directly if practical.
- Raising Concerns: If the chaperone is concerned about any inappropriate behaviour or actions by the healthcare professional, it is their responsibility to raise these concerns.
A chaperone should remain in the room for the entire duration of the examination and position themselves so that they can see what is happening without obstructing the healthcare professional.
Suitability of a Chaperone
A chaperone should remain in the room for the entire duration of the examination and position themselves so that they can see what is happening without obstructing the healthcare professional.
Communication with the Patient
- Why the examination is necessary.
- What the examination will involve, including any potential discomfort.
- The option of having a chaperone present.
The patient should be given time to ask any questions or raise concerns about the examination. Their consent to the examination and the presence of a chaperone should be obtained before proceeding.
Communication with the Patient
- Why the examination is necessary.
- What the examination will involve, including any potential discomfort.
- The option of having a chaperone present.
The patient should be given time to ask any questions or raise concerns about the examination. Their consent to the examination and the presence of a chaperone should be obtained before proceeding.
During the Examination
During the examination, the healthcare professional must:
- Clearly explain each step of the examination before performing it, particularly if the process changes from what was initially described.
- Respect the patient’s privacy by giving them the opportunity to undress and dress privately.
- Ensure that the patient remains covered as much as possible during the examination, only exposing the area being examined.
- Stop the examination immediately if the patient requests it.
Post-Examination Documentation
- The presence of a chaperone must be documented in the patient’s record, including the chaperone’s name and role.
- If the patient declines the offer of a chaperone, this should also be documented, along with the patient’s explicit consent to proceed without one.
Chaperoning for Vulnerable Groups
- For children and young people under 16, an assessment of their capacity to consent should be made. If they lack the capacity, parental consent should be sought.
- Patients with disabilities, language barriers, or those with a history of trauma may have additional support needs during intimate examinations. Extra care should be taken to ensure they feel comfortable and supported throughout the process.
Handling a Chaperone Refusal
If the healthcare professional feels strongly about the need for a chaperone but the patient declines, the healthcare professional must explain why a chaperone is required and consider referring the patient to a colleague who is comfortable conducting the examination without one, if appropriate.
By following this guide, we ensure that our patients feel respected, safe, and supported, while protecting our staff and adhering to professional guidelines.
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