While there are particular vulnerabilities that may increase the risk of patient sexual abuse, realistically all patients are vulnerable and can become victims.
Patients who were sexually abused by nurses feel:
- Violated
- Assaulted
- Embarrassed
- Vulnerable
- Ashamed
- Confused
- Devastated
Health professionals are accountable for putting the needs of clients first. Safeclient care is the only goal of the therapeutic nurse-client relationship. It does not matter if the client appears to consent to sexual activity with a nurse. Although a client may perceive they are consenting, their vulnerable state, and the power dynamics between nurses and clients, means the client is not in a position to consent.
Clients have the right to be treated in an ethical, competent and respectful manner at all times.