Purpose

This policy exists to safeguard both patients and staff during consultations and examinations. It aims to prevent misunderstandings, protect against allegations of inappropriate behaviour, and ensure patients can make informed decisions about their care.

General Principles

• Clinicians will carefully consider whether an intimate or personal examination is necessary, and whether the nature of the consultation could lead to misinterpretation.

• Patients will always receive a clear explanation of what the examination will involve.

• Clinicians will maintain a professional, respectful manner at all times. While reassurance may be offered, humour must be used cautiously as it can be misinterpreted.

• Patients will be given appropriate privacy to undress and dress.

Use of a Chaperone

• A Chaperone may be offered whenever either the patient or clinician feels uncomfortable, or where there is potential for misunderstanding.

• If a patient requests a Chaperone, the examination will not proceed without one present. If no Chaperone is available, the appointment will be rescheduled at a mutually convenient time.

• Allegations of inappropriate behaviour have occurred across genders; therefore, the presence of a Chaperone is considered a safeguard in all circumstances.

• Staff will also take into account the possibility of malicious accusations and arrange a Chaperone if there is any risk.

• For home visits, arrangements will be made to ensure a Chaperone can attend if required.

Who Can Act as a Chaperone

• Clinical staff are preferred, as they are familiar with examination procedures.

• Non-clinical staff may act as Chaperones if the patient agrees. These staff members will be trained in the role, understand the boundaries of their responsibilities, and be confident in observing examinations appropriately.

• Chaperones will document their presence in the patient’s notes and record any concerns or incidents.

Confidentiality

• Chaperones are present only during the examination itself. Most of the consultation discussion will occur without them in the room.

• All staff are bound by confidentiality and will not disclose any information about the patient’s care.

Procedure

• Clinicians will request a Chaperone through reception when needed.

• If no Chaperone is available, the examination may be postponed, provided this does not compromise the patient’s health.

• If a clinician believes a Chaperone is necessary but the patient declines, the clinician will explain the reasons. Where appropriate, the patient may be referred to another colleague willing to proceed without a Chaperone, again ensuring no adverse impact on care.

• The presence of a Chaperone will be recorded in the patient’s notes, including the name of the Chaperone.

• Chaperones will enter discreetly, remain until the examination is complete, and position themselves appropriately to observe.

• To minimise embarrassment, Chaperones will not engage in conversation with the patient or clinician unless asked, and will not discuss the consultation afterwards.

• After the examination, the Chaperone will record in the notes whether the procedure was uneventful or note any concerns. They must follow the agreed process if issues arise.

• Patients may refuse a Chaperone, and this refusal must be documented in their medical record.