Chaperones Policy

Policy

In the NHS, this policy is designed to protect both patients and staff from abuse or allegations of abuse and to assist patients to make an informed choice about their examinations and consultations.

Out staff in the practice will:

1. Explain the examination clearly

Provide the patient with a full explanation of why the examination is necessary, what it will involve, and how it will be carried out. Use clear, sensitive language and check the patient’s understanding.

2. Seek informed consent

Obtain the patient’s express verbal consent before proceeding. Ensure the patient feels comfortable to ask questions and understands they can withdraw consent at any time.

3. Respect privacy and dignity

Offer the patient adequate privacy to undress and redress, with the use of gowns, drapes, or screens where available. Only expose the area of the body being examined.

4. Respect patient choice

Make it clear that the patient may decline or postpone the examination without any negative consequences for their care.

5. Offer a chaperone

For all intimate examinations (and where appropriate for other procedures), offer a trained chaperone. Document in the patient’s notes:

• That a chaperone was offered.
• Whether the offer was accepted or declined.
• The name and role of the chaperone if present.

When might a chaperone be required?

1. Intimate examinations

These are examinations of rectal, genital or breast area.

2. Cultural or religious considerations

 Some patients may find removing clothing for an examination distressing or inappropriate. Our staff will always approach these situations with sensitivity and respect.

3. Examinations by a member of the opposite sex

We understand that in some religions this is effectively taboo, we also understand if you have a non-religious personal preference.

4. Patients with disabilities

Patients with significant physical or mental disabilities are often accompanied by a carer or relative. Our clinicians will communicate directly with the patient wherever possible, with support from the accompanying person, while ensuring the patient’s wishes are respected.

5. Patients with limited English

Examinations will only be carried out if the clinician is confident the patient understands and can give informed consent. An interpreter, if present, may also act as a chaperone. In urgent situations, every effort will be made to explain the examination in a way the patient can understand before proceeding.

6. Examinations on Children

Children are normally accompanied by a parent or adult relative, who will be present during the examination and provide consent. A separate chaperone is not usually required.

7. Teenagers (13 years and above)

Those of this age  can consent to examinations provided the GP is sure that they have sufficient competence to understand the nature and purpose of the examination.

Who can be a chaperone?

• Doctors
• Health care assistant
• Nurses
• Our Reception Team (non-clinical chaperones)

We will do our best to provide a clinical member of staff in the first instance. If this is not possible, you have the option to postpone the examination or have a non-clinical member of staff chaperone.

What Does a Chaperone Do?

• Remains present throughout the examination, usually standing near the patient’s head.
• Provides support and reassurance to the patient while observing the procedure.
• Maintains discretion and does not engage in conversation unless asked.
• Records their presence in the patient’s notes, including any concerns or incidents.