Developing a policy to deal with sexual assault on psychiatric in-patient wards

Abstract

Sexual harassment and assault on psychiatric wards is an ongoing concern. A number of incidents have been reported in the media. This paper focuses on a policy drafted to deal with allegations of sexual assault or rape on an in-patient psychiatric ward. We aimed to produce a practical, easy-to-follow guide for junior doctors and ward staff who may face complex and possibly contentious issues surrounding consent, capacity to consent and police involvement.