Healthcare professionals are in a position of trust and of power with a patient, by having professional knowledge and skills that a patient must rely on for their well-being.
In addition, they have access to patients’ personal health information.
Regulated members must always maintain professional boundaries with their patients and avoid engaging in a sexual relationship with a patient which will be considered either sexual misconduct or sexual abuse. The definitions of sexual misconduct, sexual abuse and who is a patient can be found in the Standard of Practice: 2.7 Sexual Abuse and Sexual Misconduct Involving a Patient.
Complaints of a sexual nature may involve:
- Inappropriate comments or gestures
- Unnecessary or improper physical examinations
- Sexual contact or assault