Sexual Abuse is defined in the Health Professions Procedural Code being Schedule 2 of the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 [ss 1(3)]. The definition includes behaviour or remarks of a sexual nature by the member towards the patient, where “sexual nature” does not include touching, behaviour, or remarks of a clinical nature appropriate to the service provided.”
The Client Relations Committee of the College recently developed guidance for members concerning the avoidance of Sexual Abuse: Behaviour or Remarks of a Sexual Nature Towards Patients. Members of the College are encouraged to familiarize themselves with this information and other related guidance available in the section of the College website dedicated to Preventing and Addressing: Sexual Abuse and Boundary Violations.