Communication
What is a power struggle?
A conflict where staff and patients compete for control.
What's one early sign a patient may be escalating?
Raised voice, pacing, clenched fists, agitation, etc.
What tone of voice should be used to avoid escalating a situation?
Calm and even tone.
Why is consistency with rules important?
It builds trust and fairness and reduces confusion.
Debrief & process as a team.
Name one common trigger of power struggles.
Strict enforcement, tone, dismissive feelings, ignoring input, etc.
If a patient is escalating, what should you do with your own speech pace and volume?
Slow down and lower your voice.
What type of listening involves repeating or summarizing what the patient is saying?
Active or reflective listening.
What is the difference between flexibility and inconsistency?
Flexibility means adjusting expectations or approaches to meet a patient’s needs while staying within therapeutic and safety guidelines.
Inconsistency means unpredictably changing rules, expectations or consequences.
What can staff do to prevent burnout and avoid power struggles?
Self- care and manage stress.
How can power struggles affect the therapeutic relationship?
Damage trust, escalate behaviors and strain rapport.
When should y ou give a patient space rather than pushing interaction?
When they show signs of needing time to calm down.
Name one non-verbal way staff can de-escalate tension.
Open body language, calm posture, giving space.
What could happen if rules are bent for one patient but not another?
Patients may feel unfair treatment, leading to resentment or conflict.
Why is supervision and ongoing training important for staff?
Builds skills, confidence and consistency.
Why is avoiding power struggles important for patient dignity?
Preserves autonomy, reduces escalation and promotes respect.
What is one collaborative approve to resolving conflict instead of insisting on control?
Offering choices or problem-solving together.
What should staff avoid when speaking to patients: sarcasm, threats or offering choices? (Pick 2)
Sarcasm and threats.
Why is it important for staff to model respectful interactions?
Patients learn from staff behavior and it sets a tone of safety for patients.
What is one healthy way for staff to handle personal feelings when challenged by a patient?
Pause, remain professional, and seek support if needed.