CBHT - Certified Behavioral Health Technician Client Safety and De-escalation Questions and Answers

Question 1

A client is in the day room and begins to show early signs of agitation, such as tapping their foot rapidly and speaking in a louder-than-usual tone.
Which of the following is the most appropriate initial action for a CBHT?

Accepted Answer

Approach the client in a calm, non-threatening manner and ask if something is bothering them.

Answer

Immediately tell the client they need to calm down or go to their room.

Answer

Ignore the behavior, as it may be seeking attention and will likely resolve on its own.

Answer

Gather other staff members to prepare for a potential physical intervention.

Question 2

When a CBHT needs to communicate with a client who is becoming verbally aggressive, which non-verbal technique is most effective for de-escalation?

Accepted Answer

Keeping a neutral facial expression and maintaining a greater than usual physical distance.

Answer

Maintaining intense, direct eye contact to show you are in control.

Answer

Standing directly in front of the client with arms crossed to establish authority.

Answer

Smiling frequently to try and lighten the mood and show you are not a threat.

Question 3

Which of the following environmental factors is most critical for a CBHT to consider to ensure both client and staff safety?

Accepted Answer

Making sure that exits are not blocked and that staff have a clear path to the door.

Answer

Ensuring the facility has comfortable furniture and pleasant decorations.

Answer

Keeping the television volume in the day room at a low level.

Answer

Having a wide variety of magazines and books available for clients.

Question 4

A client in a residential facility becomes irate, claiming another client stole their belongings. They are shouting and making threats. Which statement by the CBHT is the best example of setting a respectful limit?

Accepted Answer

"I can see you're very upset, and I want to help you, but we need to speak in a calmer voice so I can understand."

Answer

"You are out of control and you will be restrained if you don't stop this right now."

Answer

"I don't believe anyone stole from you, you probably just misplaced it."

Answer

"Stop yelling or you won't be able to go on the outing this afternoon."

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a recommended practice during verbal de-escalation?

Accepted Answer

Continuously telling the client 'I know how you feel.'

Answer

Allowing for periods of silence.

Answer

Using paraphrasing to clarify the person's message.

Answer

Focusing on the client's feelings rather than just the facts.

Question 6

A CBHT is working with a client who is escalating. The client is not responding to verbal de-escalation techniques and is beginning to make threatening gestures. What is the CBHT's most important next step?

Accepted Answer

Ensure your own safety and the safety of others by creating distance and calling for assistance.

Answer

Continue trying to talk the client down, but raise your voice to be heard.

Answer

Attempt to physically restrain the client by yourself to prevent harm.

Answer

Leave the room immediately without saying anything to the client.