Open AccessSexual Misconduct
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
obstetrics and gynecology (new york. 1953. online)/obstetrics and gynecology
Language(s) - Uncategorized
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.664
H-Index - 220
eISSN - 1873-233X
pISSN - 0029-7844
DOI - 10.1097/aog.0000000000003609
Subject(s) - sexual misconduct , medicine , harm , obstetrics and gynaecology , confusion , misconduct , sexual abuse , malpractice , medical emergency , family medicine , nursing , suicide prevention , poison control , pregnancy , criminology , social psychology , law , psychology , biology , political science , psychoanalysis , genetics
The practice of obstetrics and gynecology includes interaction in times of intense emotion and vulnerability for patients and involves sensitive physical examinations and medically necessary disclosure of private information about symptoms and experiences. The patient-physician relationship is damaged when there is either confusion regarding professional roles and behavior or clear lack of integrity that allows sexual exploitation and harm. Sexual misconduct by physicians is an abuse of professional power and a violation of patient trust. Although sexual misconduct is uncommon in clinical care, even one episode is unacceptable. Routine use of chaperones, in addition to the other best practices outlined in this Committee Opinion, will help assure patients and the public that obstetrician-gynecologists are maximizing efforts to create a safe environment for all patients.