What is the appropriate response if a resident exhibits aggressive behavior?

The appropriate response to a resident displaying aggressive behavior involves remaining calm, speaking softly, and removing any potential triggers from the environment. This approach helps to defuse the situation by modeling calm behavior, which can influence the resident’s emotional state positively. Speaking softly reassures the resident and communicates that they are being heard without escalating the tension.

Removing potential triggers—such as loud noises or anything that could lead to further agitation—demonstrates an awareness of the resident's needs and can help prevent the situation from escalating. This supportive strategy aligns with best practices in healthcare and enhances the safety and well-being of both the resident and the staff.

Other responses may not provide the same level of safety or support. Yelling at the resident could increase their aggression and sense of threat, while ignoring them might leave them feeling unsupported during an important moment. Calling for security might be necessary in extreme cases, but it is usually a last resort when all de-escalation strategies have failed. Thus, remaining calm and addressing the triggers is the most effective first step in managing aggressive behavior.