What does NADSP stand for?
National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals
What is empathy?
The ability to understand and share another person's feelings.
What does MUI stand for?
Major Unusual Incident
What does it mean for care to be "trauma-informed"?
Recognizing and responding to the effects of trauma in a way that promotes healing and avoids re-traumatization.
What is the first thing you should do if someone your support falls and cannot get up?
Check for injuries, stay with them, and call for help if needed.
Name one of the ethical principles in the NADSP Code of Ethics.
Respect - Integrity - Justice - Fairness - Equity - Person centered supports - Promoting Physical and emotional well-being - Responsibility - confidentiality - Relationships - self-determination - advocacy
What is one way to show empathy to someone you support?
Active listening, using kind language, being patient and understanding, validating feelings, offer help without taking over, respecting personal experiences, advocating for their needs, being consistent and reliable
True or False: A fall with no injury is always considered an MUI.
False, it may be a UIR unless there is a serious injury.
True or False: Trauma only includes physical abuse.
False, trauma can be emotional, psychological, or even medical.
True or False: A sudden change in mood or behavior can be a sign of illness.
True! It may indicate pain, infection, or other health issues.
True or False: The NADSP Code of Ethics is legally binding.
False, it is a professional guideline.
True or False: Empathy-based care focuses only on meeting physical needs.
False, it includes emotional and psychological support too.
What is one way DSPs can help prevent MUIs?
Proper supervision, fall prevention, safety training, etc.
Name one principle of trauma-informed care.
Safety, Trustworthiness and transparency, peer support, collaboration and empowerment, choice, cultural, historical, and gender sensitivity, recognition of trauma's impact, strengths-based approach.
What is one serious symptom that requires immediate medical attention?
Examples: Difficulty breathing, chest pain, seizures, unresponsiveness, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, sever panic attacks, extreme dissociation, physical injury, uncontrolled aggression or violence, hallucinations or delusions, Severe Agitation or Uncontrollable Emotional Outbursts, Severe Withdrawal from Reality, Severe Disorientation or Confusion.
What is the purpose of the NADSP Competency Areas?
To outline skills and best practices for DSPs to provide quality care.
What is person-centered care?
Care that respects and responds to an individual's preferences, needs, and values.
What should you do if you suspect abuse or neglect but don't have proof?
Report it immediately - DSPs are mandated reporters.
How can predictability and routine help individuals who have experienced trauma?
It provides a sense of security and reduces anxiety.
What should a DSP do if they suspect an individual has an undiagnosed illness?
Document observations and report concerns to a nurse or supervisor.
Give an example of how a DSP can uphold the principle of "Advocacy" in their work.
Supporting a person's right to make choices, reporting neglect, etc.
Give an example of a situation where showing empathy can improve an individual's well being.
Comforting someone who is scared of a medical appointment, supporting someone through a change.
What is the time for reporting an MUI to your supervisor or agency?
Immediately, and formal reporting within 4 hours for certain cases.
What is one sign that someone you support may have experienced trauma?
Avoidance, heightened anxiety, trouble with relationships, extreme emotional reactions, depression, irritability or anger, mood swings, guilt or shame, hypervigilance, difficulty trusting others, difficulty trusting others, difficulty concentrating or focusing, substance abuse, Sleep disturbances, Chronic pain or illness, Fatigue, Difficulty forming or maintaining relationships, Emotional numbing, Overreacting to minor stress, Intrusive memories or flashbacks, Negative thought patterns, Difficulty making decisions, Disengagement or withdrawal, Overworking or becoming a perfectionist, Risk-taking behavior, Feeling detached from reality, Memory gaps, Sudden, intense emotional reactions, Excessive vigilance or "fight or flight" responses, Engaging in self-soothing behaviors, Loss of developmental skills, Self-harming behaviors, Suicidal ideation
A person you support is coughing a lot, has trouble swallowing, and their voice sounds different after eating. What might be happening?
Possible choking or aspiration - seek medical attention.