Page 7 - Guide to PICU

Common Triggers for Responsive Behaviours
 Disrespect (real or perceived)
 Unmet needs (pain, hunger)

 Frustration/inability to communicate
 Fear, anxiety

 Change in routine or a change in the rules
 Feeling disempowered/rights removed or restricted
 Repeatedly being told to wait

 Frequent medication changes
 Feeling unheard or diminished

 Rude comments (real or perceived)
 Loss of dignity
 Frequent interruptions

 Excessive noise
 Difficulty sleeping

 Feeling ignored

If you call Security for assistance, please remember they take direction from you. Know what
you need them to do and be specific about what you need from them.

Documenting Escalating, Responsive, Aggressive Behaviour

 Document using language that is person-centered and recovery focused.
 Be nonjudgmental. Keep your feelings and opinions out of the legal record. Patients can
read their charts.

 It is important to look beyond the diagnosis as the root cause of all actions.
 Document under Significant Events – what happened and what did you do about it?

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