Ajusting

Journal #9

I have learned that in the field of human services anything can change at any given time and a fast reaction is essential.  Safety is always a number one concern and remembering that you are assisting adults with special needs sometimes can be a very worrisome combination.

The residents at the house are used to routine and following requests from the workers. Daily activities go smoothly and peacefully. A regular routine adds calmness for the residents because they adapt well to structure, however when changes are added to the daily activities, it can be very disruptive.  

Recently, a new resident was added to the home when one moved out.  The new resident has a history of attempting to escape frequently. Considering the special needs of the new resident, a new alarm system was installed in the house.  The new alarm system and procedures to address this issue had to be put into place quickly and every staff member had to be informed about how the alarm system works, its purpose and procedures to follow if the resident attempts to leave.  This concern added additional pressures for the staff and they felt nervous and worried that she would attempt an escape.  If and when she escapes, a fast reaction by the staff is needed so she does not get very far, while the other residents are being taken care of as well. The plan is that when she does leave a staff member will follow her out of the house, approach her and explain to her that she needs to go back into the house and the staff member is to escort her back inside.