It's remarkable because so many proteins require metal cofactors," said Eric Skaar, Ph.D., MPH, Ernest W. "There's been a huge gap in the field of metal biology, where we have been unable to identify metallochaperones. The findings, reported in the journal Cell, shed light on the public health issue of zinc deficiency and open an entirely new area of biology for exploration. Now, a team led by Vanderbilt researchers has described and characterized the first zinc metallochaperone: a protein that puts zinc into other "client" proteins. The World Health Organization considers zinc deficiency a leading contributor to disease and death.ĭespite zinc's critical role, however, it has not been clear how the metal gets put into proteins that use it or how our cells respond to zinc deficiency. Need help developing a policy?įor further guidance on this issue or to receive a sample chaperone policy, Curi members are encouraged to reach out to our Claims and Risk Management Departments at 80.We acquire zinc by eating it-in foods or multivitamin supplements-but up to 30% of people in some parts of the world are at risk for zinc deficiency, which can cause slowed growth, impaired immune function, neurological disorders and cancers. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in significant legal consequences for physicians and their practices.īefore implementing a formal chaperone policy, practice leaders should contact their malpractice insurer for comprehensive information regarding state laws and regulations. In the U.S., seven states- Alabama, Delaware, Georgia, Montana, New Jersey, Ohio, and Tennessee-have implemented legal mandates for the presence of medical chaperones during sensitive physical examinations. Physicians should appropriately document both the presence of a chaperone as well as his or her identity.Practice leaders should inform and educate staff on the role and purpose of chaperones and provide guidance regarding how to communicate this information to patients.Practices should establish discharge policies in the event a physician feels uncomfortable proceeding after a patient refuses a chaperone.Physicians should provide patients with the opportunity to discuss personal matters privately, minimizing sensitive inquiries and history-taking during chaperoned examinations.For example, nurses or medical assistants are often requested to serve as medical chaperones. Chaperones should be trained health professionals who are members of the medical team.Additionally, doctors should either strongly advise or require the presence of a chaperone during examinations of the breasts, genitalia, or rectum. Physicians should inform patients that they are entitled to have a chaperone present for any physical examination.Best practices for writing an effective chaperone policy Physicians should document all conversations and wishes of the patient, as well as any individuals who are present for each interaction. When using a medical chaperone, proper documentation is critical, particularly following sensitive examinations and procedures. While friends and family may be invited to stay at the discretion of the patient, physicians should not solely rely on them as chaperones.ĭoctors are not obligated to continue providing care to patients who refuse chaperones if they feel uncomfortable with the patient’s decision. During this conversation, physicians should explain the practice’s policy as well as the purpose and role of the medical chaperone. Whether or not to use a medical chaperone during an examination should be a shared decision between the patient and the physician. In addition, their presence can help prevent misunderstandings of physician intentions while protecting the patient’s dignity during sensitive exams and procedures. Medical chaperones promote an overall sense of safety and comfort for patients. However, chaperones provide benefits that go well beyond this core function. Medical chaperones protect patients from potential abuse by functioning as an observer during exams. Using chaperones during intimate examinations is one highly effective approach to fostering a safe environment and building a foundation of trust and confidence with patients. Physicians have an obligation to provide a safe, comfortable environment to their patients. Physicians can immediately reduce their risk by offering medical chaperones. Allegations of sexual misconduct in the healthcare industry continue to rise.
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