Before using a permitted type of emergency behavior intervention, what actions must be taken?

• A. Attempt less restrictive interventions that prove ineffective; and determine the basis for the emergency
• B. Immediately restrain the child in the most restrictive way
• C. Call police and isolate the child
• D. None of the above

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is using the least intrusive response first and documenting the reason for needing an emergency intervention. Before employing a permitted emergency behavior intervention, staff must try less restrictive strategies and show they are ineffective (or not feasible) in the moment. Only after those steps fail or aren’t possible should a more restrictive emergency option be used, and the staff must clearly document the basis for the emergency (for example, imminent risk of harm to self or others). This approach protects safety while limiting unnecessary restraint and provides a record that the decision was justified. Restraining in the most restrictive way without first attempting less restrictive options isn’t appropriate, and calling police or isolating the child isn’t the required precondition for an emergency intervention.