Per our Use of Chaperones During Physical Examinations Policy, the provider is required to document the chaperone's presence in the patient's medical record to include the name of the chaperone. All Sensitive Examinations require the presence of a chaperone. "Sensitive Examination" means a physical examination or procedure requiring inspection or palpation of anorectal or genital areas and/or the female breast. "Chaperone" means a person who acts as a witness for a patient and healthcare provider during a physical examination or procedure. While family members may be present for Sensitive Examinations for patients aged 10 years or older, they are not allowed to serve as a Chaperone, which such role shall be filled by a healthcare professional (preferably a nurse or medical assistant). A family member, parent, or legal guardian may serve as a Chaperone only for pediatric examinations, to include Sensitive Examinations, for patients aged 0 through 9 years, except for: a. Examinations or procedures where there is placement of a finger(s), speculum, swab, or any other instrument into the vagina, urethra, or rectum; or b. If there is a suspicion of abuse. A dot phrase has been created for ease of documentation: "The examination was performed with xx as chaperone." [dot phrase: .CHAPERONE]. |