Q:
How can behavior tracking help identify the root cause of a resident’s agitation?
A:
Behavior tracking allows staff to analyze patterns and triggers contributing to a resident’s agitation. By documenting factors such as time, environment, interactions, and preceding events, staff can determine potential causes including pain, hunger, boredom, noise levels, medication side effects, or changes in routine.
For example, if a resident becomes agitated every afternoon, behavior logs may reveal correlations with a shift change, increased noise, or missed toileting needs. Recognizing these triggers enables staff to implement targeted interventions, such as providing a quiet space, offering reassurance, or adjusting care routines to prevent agitation before it escalates.
Consistently tracking and analyzing behaviors allows staff to proactively address the underlying causes of agitation, ultimately enhancing the resident’s quality of life and promoting a more peaceful living environment. Access Proactive’s 6 session Behavioral Health & Psychosocial Well-Being Series.
Written By:
Jessica Miller, RN, RAC-CT
MDS Consultant
Proactive LTC Consulting
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