1. Assertive Community Treatment Webinar: Week 2
Provider Safety
Assertive Community Treatment Webinar: Week 2

2. Risks of in-home services
In 2010, the health care and social assistance industry reported 653,900 cases of injuries and illnesses
The injury rate in home-care settings is about 50% higher than that in hospitals, according to the US Bureau of Labor statistics

3. Objectives
Become aware of actions to be taken in preparation for safety
Identify the indicators of agitation
Become familiar with tips for safety while on site
What to do after the session
Improve awareness of other hazards of providing in- home care

4. In preparation
Know your client – The best predictor of future behavior is past behavior
Effective communication for safety
Share your schedule
Let them know you’ve arrived
Call the client ahead of time
Use of a code word or phrase

5. In preparation Items for safety
Car – make sure your car is serviced regularly and in good working order
Make sure you have plenty of fuel
Make sure your cell phone is charged
Keep a charger in your car
Clothing that is easy to move in

6. In preparation Awareness Be aware of your surroundings
Know your way to and from the location
Know what the neighborhood looks like at night
Keep your keys accessible
If you see suspicious activity, don’t stop in front of the house
Use the initial phone call to gather vital background information

7. In preparation The unpredictable environment
Conduct visits with another team member when possible
Explore the possibility of having a supportive family member present (assuming ROIs are in place)
Communicate with your team where you are, when you’ve arrived, and how long you’ll be

8. Indicators of agitation
Physiological Indicators
Behavioral Indicators
Indicators of agitation

9. Indicators of agitation
Physiological Indicators
Involuntary shaking
Breathing heavily
Tensing of muscles
Flushed skin

10. Indicators of agitation
Behavioral Indicators
Voluntary shaking
Sudden or unpredictable movements/jolts
Talking louder than usual
Maintaining a fixed stare
Scanning the room
Anything out of the ordinary
Indicators of agitation

11. Safety during the visit
Stay calm and non-threatening
Keep your guard up
Listen to your gut instinct
Always have your cell phone with you
Examine all your surroundings
Keep a safe distance from the door after knocking

12. Safety during the visit (continued)
Locate all exits once inside
Speak calmly, but firmness
Look for signs of agitation
Do not enter an elevator with suspicious-looking individuals or make you feel uncomfortable
Don’t get too comfortable
If you feel unsafe, leave

13. After the session
Examine your surroundings before vacating the premises
Let your team lead/support know you’ve finished the session
Report any physical threats, verbal threats or any other events that took place that mad you uncomfortable

14. Other hazards Be mindful of household hazards Debris-littered floors
Steps up or down into a room
Sharps that haven’t been properly disposed of
Shoes in the house
Avoid touching animals
Bed bugs
Wash your hands regularly
Take allergies into account before doing home visits
Make sure your vehicle is equipped for harsh weather

15. Notes for Administrators
Ensure staff is trained in crisis management
Develop your own safety protocols
Be aware of the importance of hiring qualified administrative staff, as they will be the primary point of contact