AdvanceCare Health Services

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Navigating Challenging Behaviors: De-escalation in HealthCare

Wondering about de-escalation in healthcare and how to navigate challenging behaviors?  As Family Model Professionals, you understand that de-escalation can be an important part of your role!  In order to provide compassionate care to individuals with disabilities on a daily basis, you have to have patience. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips and tricks for de-escalating tense situations and resolving conflicts.

Understanding Challenging Behaviors:

First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize that challenging behaviors often stem from unmet needs or communication barriers. By understanding this, it might become easier to approach each situation with compassion, rather than frustration or anger.  Knowing the root cause can provide a sense of empathy.

De-escalation Techniques:

When faced with someone exhibiting challenging behavior, it’s important to stay calm. De-escalation in healthcare can be provided by taking a deep breath and focus on maintaining a non-confrontational demeanor. Speak softly and use slow, calming gestures to help diffuse the situation. Remember to give the individual space and avoid cornering them, as this can escalate the situation further.

Active Listening:

Effective communication is key to de-escalation in healthcare. Practice active listening by giving the individual your full attention and validating their feelings. Reflect back what you hear to them, demonstrating that you hear them and you understand. Avoid interrupting or dismissing their concerns, as this can intensify feelings of frustration or anger.

Offer Choices:

Empower the individual by offering them choices and involving them in the decision-making process. This helps to foster a sense of teamwork and control, which can help reduce feelings of agitation. Present clear options, and be prepared to provide support when the individual chooses a route to go.

Implementing Positive Reinforcement:

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool for promoting favorable interactions when it comes to de-escalation in healthcare. Offer praise and encouragement for moments of cooperation, and use rewards to motivate the individual to continue to engage in a positive manner.

Seeking Additional Support:

In some cases, challenging behaviors may persist despite our best efforts to de-escalate the situation. It’s important to know when to seek additional support from Program Managers, your support staff, or behavioral specialists. If you don’t think you can handle the situation yourself, utilize your resources and seek assistance.

Engage others to join our team:

If you know someone who is passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities, consider referring that person to join AdvanceCare as a Family Model Professional. In this rewarding role, they’ll have the opportunity to provide compassionate care and create meaningful connections that last a lifetime. AdvanceCare’s team members touch lives, one interaction at a time. Encourage family, friends, and neighbors to apply with AdvanceCare today to embark on a fulfilling career dedicated to caring for others.  www.tnadvancecare.com

Together, we can empower individuals to thrive and lead fulfilling lives by practicing de-escalation in healthcare.  We touch lives!

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