ABSTRACT
The role of the chaperone in healthcare has been recognised as increasingly important for patients and healthcare providers alike. It is often performed badly, leaving the health professional and patient open to abuse, and so it is vital that all those who are to perform the role understand the reason for it and can do it properly. This chapter outlines the history behind the current situation and provides guidelines for healthcare workers who may be asked to perform this role in the future. The chaperone can act as an advocate for the patient, assessing their understanding and offering an explanation when necessary. The most common reasons for needing a chaperone are: to offer the patient protection against verbal, physical or sexual abuse and identify inappropriate behaviour and to support the patient by providing reassurance and physical and emotional comfort during an embarrassing ‘sensitive’ examination.
