Summary: Chaperones observe examinations and procedures, to act as an independent witness, and to protect clinicians & patients
What is a chaperone?
A chaperone observes intimate examinations and procedures, to reassure the patient and to protect both the clinician & patient from allegations of inappropriate behaviour
- This should ideally be a healthcare professional, with an understanding of what is said, and what happens during a procedure. In some cases, trained non-clinical staff can also act as a chaperone.
- A chaperone must be independent, and so a family member or friend would not be appropriate. However, family and friends may also be present, with the patient’s consent.
A chaperone can be used during:
- Intimate examinations (Procedures involving breasts, genitalia or rectum)
- Consultations involving dimmed lights
- When the patient may have to undress
- Any situation where the patient or clinician feels vulnerable
A chaperone should:
- Be sensitive and respect the patient’s dignity and confidentiality
- Reassure the patient if they show signs of distress or discomfort
- Be familiar with the procedures involved in a routine intimate examination
- Stay inside the screened-off area, unless otherwise requested by the patient
- Stay for the whole examination and be able to see what the doctor is doing
- Be prepared to raise concerns if they are concerned about the doctor’s behaviour or actions
Offering a chaperone
- Chaperone services should be advertised throughout the practice, and on our websites
- Before an intimate examination, explain why it is necessary, what it involves, answer any questions, and gain consent
- All patient undergoing relevant procedures should routinely be offered a chaperone and, if appropriate, offered at the time of booking the appointment
- For children, their capacity should be assessed, and otherwise seek parental consent
- Where a patient declines a chaperone, this should be recorded
Ask a member of Reception or any Clinical Team Member to act as a chaperone if needed
If a chaperone is not available:
- If either the clinician or patient have requested one, the procedure should be rescheduled
- However, if the seriousness of the condition would make the delay inappropriate, a decision should be made jointly by the patient & clinician
Training
All clinical teams and receptionists should complete training on Blue Stream Academy, every 2 years
Documenting chaperones
The appropriate read codes should be used, and note the chaperone’s full name, and position.
Chaperone Offered | 1104081000000107 |
Chaperone Present | 314231002 |
Chaperone Refused | 763380007 |
Chaperone not Available | 428929009 |