Medical Chaperone
A chaperone can be described as an independent person who serves as a witness for both a person accessing healthcare and a healthcare practitioner. They act as a safeguard for both parties during intimate examinations or procedures where a person may need to undress and consent to care of private areas of their body.
The relationship between a person accessing healthcare and a healthcare practitioner is based on trust. Any person, of any gender, is entitled to a chaperone for any consultation, examination, or intervention if they feel one is required.
Why Chaperone?
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Safeguard patients throughout the consultation, examination, treatment, and care.
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Ensure vulnerable adult and children’s safety, privacy and dignity is maintained.
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Provide practical support and to assist with undressing.
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Provide practical assistance before, during or after any examination or procedure.
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Provide help to avoid an unnecessary discomfort, pain, humiliation, or intimidation.
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Provide emotional comfort and reassurance during vulnerable moments.
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Act to intervene if any untoward behaviour or action by the practitioner happens.
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Act as an impartial observer or witness and act as an advocate for the person accessing healthcare.
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Act to minimise the risk of a healthcare practitioner’s action being misinterpreted.
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Act to protect the practitioner against unfounded accusation of improper conduct
Intimate examinations:
Intimate examinations include the examination of breasts, genitalia or rectum. Intimate examinations and procedures can be stressful and embarrassing for patients.
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Non-Intimate Examinations
Not all examinations are classed as intimate and will most likely not require a chaperone. However, every person accessing healthcare has the right to request a chaperone be present.
Basic things to expect during sensitive examinations.
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Explanation – what the procedure involves, why it is needed, and how it may feel.
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Privacy – you should NOT have to undress in front of staff, a private place should be offered.
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Covering – if your body is exposed a Gown, Sheet or a Drape should be offered to you.
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Stop – You have the right to refuse or STOP an examination any time you feel uncomfortable.
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Conversation – sexual remarks, hints or jokes about you, your body, or your history should NEVER happen.