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What does chaperone mean in medical terms?

What does chaperone mean in medical terms?

Chaperone. A chaperone is a person who acts as a witness for a patient and a health professional during a medical examination or procedure. A chaperone should stand in a location where he or she is able to assist as needed and observe the examination, therapy or procedure.

Why do doctors use chaperone?

1 A chaperone or observer can ensure that whatever is communicated to the patient is what takes place. Patients may consider the offer for a chaperone or observer as a sign of respect, contributing to the development of trust and confidence in the patient–doctor relationship.

Who can be a medical chaperone?

1,2 Currently, the American Medical Association (AMA) says any authorized member of the health care team can serve as a medical chaperone as long as there are clear expectations to uphold professional standards of privacy and confidentiality.

What is chaperone in gynecology?

Chaperones are widely used for gynecological and other intimate examinations. A chaperone may support the patient with reassurance and emotional support during a procedure or examination that the patient may find embarrassing or uncomfortable.

How do you explain a chaperone to a patient?

A chaperone should usually be a health professional and you must be satisfied that the chaperone will:

  1. be sensitive and respect the patient’s dignity and confidentiality.
  2. reassure the patient if they show signs of distress or discomfort.
  3. be familiar with the procedures involved in a routine intimate examination.

When should you have a chaperone?

A chaperone may be required in the following situations: 1) Intimate examinations. These are examinations of rectal, genital or breast area. 2) For patients with certain cultural or religious beliefs any examination requiring removing of clothing.

Can a medical student be a chaperone?

The chaperone should usually be a trained health professional, although doctors should comply with ‘a reasonable request’ to have a family member or friend present as well as a chaperone. This page was correct at publication on 19/01/2022.

Can a patient refuse a chaperone?

Can I decline to have a chaperone present during my exam or procedure? Yes. Adults and patients who are 12 years and older and can make their own medical decisions can decline a chaperone. The health care provider may also decide not to perform an exam or procedure unless a chaperone is present.

Can a doctor insist on a chaperone?

The chaperone should usually be a trained health professional, although doctors should comply with ‘a reasonable request’ to have a family member or friend present as well as a chaperone.

Can a family member be a chaperone?

Can a family member act as a chaperone? Whilst a family member may be present in the room for the examination if the patient wishes, the family member cannot fulfil the role of chaperone, even if acting as an interpreter for the patient.

What happens if a patient declines a chaperone?

If the patient refuses a chaperone You may need to offer an alternative appointment, or an alternative doctor, but only if the patient’s clinical needs allow this.

What age is a chaperone?

When you need a chaperone A child legally needs to have a chaperone up to age 16 or until they have completed their compulsory education. The law covers children working in television, theatre, film or amateur performance as well as sporting activities or modelling.

What is a chaperone in medical terms?

What is a chaperone? A chaperone is an impartial observer present during an intimate examination of a patient. He or she will usually be a health professional who is familiar with the procedures involved in the examination. The chaperone will usually be the same sex as the patient.

When is it appropriate to use a chaperone during an examination?

In general, use a chaperone even when a patient’s trusted companion is present. Provide opportunity for private conversation with the patient without the chaperone present. Physicians should minimize inquiries or history taking of a sensitive nature during a chaperoned examination.

What is the purpose of a chaperone policy?

There can be physical, psychological, and cultural reasons why chaperones may be requested or needed. This policy promotes respect for the patient dignity and the professional nature of the examination. Health professionals should only perform sensitive examinations, procedures or care in accordance with this policy. B.

How do you chaperone a patient in a hospital?

Adopt a policy that patients are free to request a chaperone and ensure that the policy is communicated to patients. Always honor a patient’s request to have a chaperone. Have an authorized member of the health care team serve as a chaperone.

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