How to Answer: Tell me how you de-escalated patient interactions?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Behavioral Health Technician job interview.
4. Tell me how you de-escalated patient interactions?
How to Answer
Discuss your conflict resolution strategy with the interviewer. Tell the interviewer about a time you stayed in the room with the patient and helped them breathe through the situation or leave the room and return once they have calmed down.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"When it comes to conflict resolution, I firmly believe that people can harm each other in the heat of the moment, especially when they are angry. When this happens, I usually ask both parties to take a step back. I send one patient to the cafeteria and the other for a walk outside and physically separate them from each other. I tell them that they are on a 10 minute time out and ask them to make a list of what it is exactly that bothers them. When they return to the room, we all go over the list and then discuss how to best resolve these issues. I also tell them that anytime they get angry - they should take deep breaths and write down what bothers them so that we can discuss in the next session."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"Because patient interactions can happen during group sessions I always start the group off by reviewing ground rules and encouraging participation. Allowing patients to speak freely while being respectful of others can sometimes lead to escalated discussions. Keeping the mood calm and showing the patient that I'm there to help them helps de-escalate uncomfortable situations."
Written by Heather Douglass