For patients with mental health needs, neurodevelopment disorders, or for cultural/religious reasons, sensitive examinations, procedures or care may be especially threatening or confusing. A chaperone, particularly one trusted by the patient, may help the patient through the process with the minimum of distress.

When would a patient require 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.

Why is a chaperone needed?

A chaperone is an adult who is present during an intimate examination of a patient. A chaperone is there to protect both the patient and the doctor or midwife from allegations of inappropriate behaviour. They may also be asked to assist the doctor or midwife during the examination.