Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians must always maintain clear professional boundaries. When these boundaries are crossed, people can be harmed and public trust in pharmacy can be seriously affected. This article sets out key principles from our guidance and learning from recent cases dealt with by our fitness to practice team.
Why boundaries matter
With the expansion of pharmacy services, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians have greater patient contact. People using pharmacy services may be in vulnerable situations and may not recognise or challenge inappropriate behaviour.
Because of the power imbalance in professional relationships, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians must take particular care to act with integrity and protect each person’s dignity.
Recognising sexualised behaviour
Sexualised behaviour includes:
- unnecessary physical contact
- intrusive or personal questions
- inappropriate comments
- any behaviour that causes discomfort
For example, a pharmacist carried out a clinically unjustified physical examination for a person who asked for emergency contraception, without their informed consent. The pharmacist was removed from the register.
Behaviour may still be inappropriate even if the person did not intend it to be sexual. Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians must be alert to these risks and avoid any actions that could undermine trust.
Managing challenging situations
If a pharmacist or pharmacy technician feels attracted to someone under their care, they must not act on those feelings. Seeking impartial advice can help safeguard judgement. Personal relationships with former patients should also be approached cautiously due to ongoing power imbalances.
Cultural sensitivity and chaperones
Expectations about personal boundaries can vary. Treating each person as an individual and offering a chaperone in sensitive situations helps protect both the professional and the person receiving care.
For example, it is important to consider a person’s cultural and personal comfort before asking them to expose their arm from a long-sleeved top for vaccination, and if a chaperone would be appropriate in that situation.
Key questions for every consultation
Is there a clear purpose for any physical examination?
Do I have the right training and equipment?
Have I asked for and recorded the person’s consent?
Have I offered and, where accepted, used a chaperone?
Help and support
The Rights of Women sexual harassment at work advice helpline provides free and confidential legal advice to women and girls.
Survivors UK operate a free, confidential national online helpline for men and boys.
GALOP offer a free, confidential and independent helpline and support service for all LGBT+ people who have experienced sexual assault, violence or abuse.
NHS social care support gives free, private support to people who have experienced different forms of abuse.
If you have been affected by sexual misconduct and decide to raise a concern with us, you do this by using our concerns form.