Chaperons During Consultation

There may be on occasions a need for you to have an intimate examination whilst seeing your GP or Practice Nurse. If this is ever the case then you can expect certain standards to be adhered to by the practice.

• The doctor or nurse will explain to you why the examination is necessary and give you an opportunity to ask questions
• You will be asked for you permission for such an examination to take place.
• You will be offered a chaperon (if possible in advance) so that you can invite a relative or friend to be present if you so wish.
• In certain circumstances a doctor or nurse may wish a chaperon to be present, if you decline this, then a record of the fact that you declined this facility will be made.
• You will be given privacy to undress and dress and if any assistance is required then the chaperon will be asked to help you.

You should also be aware that as a patient you have the right to ask for a chaperon to be present during any consultation or examination with a doctor or nurse that you wish.