Signs & Symptoms
Name 2 common sign that someone may be experiencing depression.
-Appearing unusually sad or hopeless
-Saying things like “I don’t care anymore”
-Changes in eating, sleeping, or hygiene
-Withdrawing from usual activities or conversations
Should you argue with someone who is having hallucinations?
No; stay calm, don't argue, and ensure safety.
If you notice sudden, severe changes in mood or behavior, should you report it?
Yes; immediately.
Name 1 sign of fentanyl use.
What does Narcan do?
Reverse the effects of opioid overdose.
If a client suddenly becomes very agitated or aggressive, what might this signal?
Possible mental health crisis or distress.
Name the steps to de-escalate an agitated client with mental health issues.
Speak calmly, give them space, and listen without judgment.
Who do you usually report mental health concerns to?
Care Supervisor
-Very strong – tiny amounts can cause overdose
-Can be mixed with other drugs unknowingly
Should you ever help a client get drugs or alcohol?
No. It is unsafe and against Homebridge policy.
-Believing others are watching or plotting against them
-Being unusually suspicious or accusing you of wrongdoing
-Hiding things or whispering about people who aren’t there
True or False: You should always promise to keep a client's suicidal thoughts a secret.
False. You are required to report it for their safety.
True or False: Touching or being near fentanyl can cause overdose.
False.
Name 2 ways a client might misuse prescription drugs.
-Taking medications in a way not prescribed
-Taking someone else’s prescriptions
-Using higher doses or more frequent doses than ordered
-Using medication for non-medical reasons (e.g. to feel “high”)
Name three environmental signs that someone may be using substances.
-Drug paraphernalia: needles, pipes, burnt foil
-Strong odors: smoke, chemicals
-Unusual containers or hidden bags
-New guest who seem involved in using or dealing
Name 2 things you can NOT do as part of your scope of practice in providing care for a client with mental health issues.
-Diagnose mental health conditions
-Create treatment plans or prescribe medication
-Do therapy or counseling
-Make medical decisions or change treatment
True or False: You can stay and continue to provide care if your client is mildly intoxicated and there are no active threats to your safety.
True.
If a client is actively using fentanyl in your presence, what should you do first?
Politely ask them to put it away with arguing or confronting them aggressively.
Name 2 risks of polysubstance use.
Increased risk of overdose or unpredictable behavior
True or False: Sudden confusion can be a sign of a mental health issue or substance use.
True.
Name 3 things you should NOT do if your client is actively using substances in your presence.
-Handle or throw away drugs or paraphernalia
-Confront or argue about substance use
-Ignore signs, even if it seems minor
-Stay in an unsafe space
What is the first step if your client has an overdose?
Call 911 immediately then use Narcan if available and trained to do so
What is the first step if you have been physically exposed to fentanyl (i.e. touching, inhaling secondhand smoke, etc.)?
Wash your hands! Monitor symptoms afterwards.
Why do clients often use substances?
To cope with trauma, homelessness, or pain through substance use.