Chaperones

A sensitive exam or procedure is any physical exam of the genitals or rectal area or breasts. These include examinations or procedures of:

• Breasts in female, transgender or nonbinary people with breasts 
• Penis, scrotum and testicles 
• Pubic/groin region
• Vulva and vagina
• Rectum, anus, buttocks and the area of skin between the genitals and the anus (perineum) 

The chaperone is a specially trained UCLA Health team member who helps make sure sensitive exams or procedures are done safely and respectfully. Their role is to support your comfort, privacy and dignity during the exam. The chaperone will remain in the room, in a place where they can observe the exam or procedure and help if needed. 

Yes. You may request a chaperone at any time, even for exams and procedures that are not considered sensitive.

Yes. Adult patients and patients 12 years of age and older may decline to have a chaperone present. 

For children under age 8, a parent or guardian may act as the chaperone and stay in the room. 

If a chaperone is needed for patients who are 8 years of age or older, it must be a UCLA Health-trained chaperone. For children between the ages of 8 and 11, the child’s parent may decline to have a chaperone present.

Please note: In some cases, even if the patient declines a chaperone, the provider may decide not to perform an exam or procedure without a chaperone present. 

Yes. If you prefer a chaperone of a specific gender, let us know before you arrive for your exam or procedure. We will do our best to accommodate your request. 

During all sensitive exams and procedures, you can expect:

• An explanation of why the exam or procedure is needed, what the provider will do, and what it may feel like
• Privacy to undress. You should not be asked to undress in front of the provider or staff
• A covering, such as a gown or sheet, if your body is exposed
• Professional behavior at all times. The provider should never make sexual remarks, hints or jokes.
• The right to refuse any part of the exam or to stop it at any time

Sensitive exams and procedures should always be done in a respectful and private manner. If you ever feel uncomfortable, speak up. You are always in control of your body. 

We value your privacy and dignity during every exam and procedure. At UCLA Health, you can expect:

1. The door to be closed during the exam or procedure, with only necessary staff present
2. The provider and staff to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer before and after care. Gloves are worn when there’s a chance of contact with open wounds, blood or bodily fluids.
3. The provider and staff to explain the exam or procedure. They may ask related questions about your medical history.
4. The provider and staff to ask permission before beginning and explain what to expect during the visit
5. A trained chaperone to be present for sensitive exams and procedures, or anytime you request one

If you ever feel uncomfortable or notice behavior that seems inappropriate, please speak up right away.