#Definition of chaperone how to
#Definition of chaperone pdf
#Definition of chaperone professional

Lack of definitionĭefining the role of chaperones is not without problems. This requires chaperones to be adequately trained, so they have both clinical know-ledge of the procedure undertaken and good communication skills. It may also involve explaining to patients what they can expect beforehand and supporting them afterwards. The role of chaperones is not limited to being present in the room during an examination. In some cases, it will be the doctor who asks for a nurse chaperone to be present while undertaking intimate examinations. The General Medical Council (2013) has recommended that patients – both male and female – are offered the possibility of being seen in the presence of a chaperone. This is the case, for example, with the examination of breasts, genitalia or the rectum, but such situations also include examinations for which it is necessary to touch or even be close to the patient – this could include taking a pulse or listening to the patient’s chest with a stethoscope. Some healthcare interventions require examinations that are intimate in nature, often embarrassing and potentially distressing for patients. This article discusses the role and responsibilities of nurse chaperones and, crucially, highlights what they need to do to protect themselves if they are involved in litigation. However, in the hierarchical structure of the NHS, a junior nurse may feel daunted to speak up about the misconduct of a senior doctor or a consultant. Chaperones must be impartial and have no obligation to the doctor. This might seem fair at first glance but, on consideration, it is unfair to patients.

It is not unusual for a male doctor to ask a female nurse to act as a chaperone when they need to carry out intimate examinations on patients – their rationale being that this may protect them from future false allegations of improper conduct made by patients.

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#Definition of chaperone pdf

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This article has been double-blind peer reviewed.

Nursing Times 115: 7, 18-21.Īuthor: Paul Marinaccio-Joseph is solicitor and lecturer in healthcare law and ethics, Swansea University.

#Definition of chaperone professional

However, one thing is clear, in case of litigation, a chaperone cannot ‘side’ with the health professional against whom allegations of misconduct are being made.Ĭitation: Marinaccio-Joseph P (2019) Nurses as chaperones: legal obligations and implications.

#Definition of chaperone how to

Nurses need to be aware of what can be expected of a chaperone in the eyes of the law, so they know not only how to protect patients, but also how to protect themselves.

What exactly does this entail? There are several legal requirements attached to the role, for which a nurse may end up being involved in litigation and court proceedings. When a doctor undertakes intimate examinations on a patient, it is not unusual for a nurse to be asked to attend as a chaperone.