When a verbal complaint is lodged against a member of CHIMA, what action must the ethics committee take?

In the context of handling a verbal complaint lodged against a member of CHIMA, the appropriate action for the ethics committee involves requesting documentation from the complainant. This step is crucial because it helps to gather detailed information about the complaint, including specific incidents or behaviors that led to the grievance. Documentation provides a clear basis for understanding the nature of the complaint, allowing the ethics committee to proceed with a thorough investigation if necessary.

The request for documentation is important as it not only formalizes the complaint process but also establishes a record that can be referred to during subsequent evaluations and discussions. This ensures that the committee's actions are informed by the complainant's perspective and that they have a comprehensive view of the situation before determining the next steps, such as an investigation or any other required actions.

Additionally, this process emphasizes the importance of substantiating claims with evidence, which is vital in ethical review processes to ensure fairness and accountability. By focusing on obtaining documentation, the committee sets the groundwork for a structured and legitimate examination of the complaint raised.