Chaperone Policy
This chaperone policy provides a framework for Old Irvine Road Surgery to ensure patient safety and professional standards during intimate examinations, adhering to GMC guidance and NHS Scotland principles.
1. Purpose
This policy protects both patients and staff from abuse or allegations of abuse and ensures examinations are conducted with dignity and respect.
2. Defining Intimate Examinations
Intimate examinations typically involve the breasts, genitalia, or rectum. However, any examination where a patient feels vulnerable—such as those requiring undressing or close physical proximity—may warrant a chaperone.
3. Role of the Chaperone
A chaperone acts as an impartial observer and patient advocate. Both a patient and a clinician can request that a chaperone is present. Their responsibilities include:
· Observation: Staying for the entire examination and being positioned to see the procedure clearly.
· Support: Reassuring the patient and identifying signs of distress or discomfort.
· Safeguarding: Raising concerns immediately if the clinician's behaviour is inappropriate.
4. Chaperone Requirements
· Training: Formal chaperones must be trained in the specific competencies required for the role.
· Staffing: While clinical staff (e.g., nurses) are preferred, trained non-clinical staff may act as chaperones if the patient agrees.
· Background Checks: All staff acting as chaperones must have an up-to-date Disclosure Scotland (PVG) check.
· Family/Friends: Relatives may be present for emotional support (informal chaperones) but do not replace the requirement for a formal, impartial staff chaperone.
5. Procedure
· Communication: Explain the necessity of the examination and what it involves before it begins.
· Offer: A chaperone must be offered for all intimate examinations, regardless of the gender of the clinician or patient.
· Consent: Obtain and record explicit consent for both the examination and the presence of the chaperone.
· Privacy: Provide a private area for the patient to undress and dress, using screens, gowns and bench-roll as needed.
· Availability: If no chaperone is available and the patient or clinician requests one, the examination should be rescheduled unless it is a life-threatening emergency.
6. Patient Declines a Chaperone
Patients have the right to refuse a chaperone. If a clinician is uncomfortable proceeding without one, they may:
· Explain their reasoning clearly to the patient.
· Refer the patient to a colleague who is willing to examine them without a chaperone, provided the delay does not harm the patient's health.
· Decide that the examination cannot proceed and look at alternative arrangements.
7. Documentation
Clinicians must record the following in the patient's notes:
· The offer of a chaperone and whether it was accepted or declined.
· The name and designation of the chaperone present.
· Any issues or concerns raised during the procedure.