The consequence of the behaviour is very much dependent on the staff’s interpretation and reaction to the behaviour. Some ways to assist you in making sure there is a positive consequence:
STOP- Think about what you are about to do and consider the best way to do it.
PLAN AND EXPLAIN- Who you are; what you want to do; why.
SMILE- The person who takes their cue from you will mirror your relaxed and positive body language and tone of voice.
GO SLOW- You have a lot to do and you are in a hurry but the person isn’t. How would you feel if someone came into your bedroom, pulled back your blankets and started pulling you out of bed without even giving you time to wake up properly?
GO AWAY- If the person is resistive or aggressive but is not causing harm to themselves or others, leave them alone. Give them time to settle down and reapproach later.
GIVE THEM SPACE- Any activity that involves invasion of personal space increases the risk of assault and aggression. Every time you provide care for a person you are invading their space.
STAND ASIDE- Always provide care from the side not the front of the person where you are an easy target to hit, kick etc.
DISTRACT THEM- Talk to the person about things they enjoyed in the past and give them a face washer or something to hold while you are providing care.
KEEP IT QUIET- Check noise level and reduce it. Turn off the radio and TV.
DON’T ARGUE- They are right and you are wrong. The demented brain tells the person they can’t be wrong.
BRAINSTORM AND DEBRIEF- How can you and your team best meet the physical, environmental and psychological needs of the people in your care?