The British Society of Echocardiography (BSE) has published a new position statement on the provision of chaperones for echocardiography.
The position statement builds on existing guidance to align with national professional standards, including the General Medical Council (GMC) Intimate Examinations and Chaperones Guidance and the Society of Radiographers (SoR) Intimate Examinations and Chaperones Policy.
It explains when a chaperone should be offered, what role they play and the responsibilities of staff in maintaining privacy and dignity for the patients as well as stressing the importance of comprehensive patient information and documentation.
Ms Wendy Gamlin, President-Elect of the BSE said, “Clear guidance on the use of chaperones helps to create a safe, respectful and supportive environment for patients, while also providing reassurance and professional protection for echocardiographers. This position statement supports services in delivering high-quality care that upholds patient dignity, informed consent and best practice, particularly in community and outreach settings where arrangements for chaperone provision may require careful consideration.”
Read the position statement