DSP Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield DSP facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which of the following is a universal precaution DSPs must follow when handling blood or bodily fluids? → Wear gloves and wash hands thoroughly after removal
2. Which of the following actions BEST demonstrates a DSP maintaining professional boundaries? → Declining a client's invitation to a private family celebration.
3. Which of the following is an example of passive neglect by a DSP? → Forgetting to give scheduled medications due to distraction
4. Which of the following BEST describes 'self-determination' for people with disabilities? → The right to make choices and have control over one's own life
5. Which of the following is an example of a secondary condition that DSPs can help prevent in people with physical disabilities? → Pressure ulcers from prolonged sitting or lying in one position
6. What is 'asset-based thinking' when applied to community inclusion? → Focusing on an individual's strengths and what they can contribute to the community
7. A person's 'circle of support' in person-centered planning typically includes: → Family, friends, community members, and professionals chosen by the person
8. Maria has an intellectual disability and has expressed interest in getting a part-time job. Her plan has no employment goal. As a DSP, you should: → Encourage Maria and share her interest with the support team to add an employment goal
9. A DSP is assigned to a new individual and reviews their behavior support plan. Who is authorized to modify the interventions listed in the plan? → The qualified behavior specialist or team that developed the plan
10. What is the first action a DSP should take when a supported individual has a seizure? → Keep the person safe by clearing the area and protecting their head
11. Which data collection method involves recording every instance of a target behavior? → Frequency/event recording
12. What is the first requirement for becoming a certified Direct Support Professional (DSP)? → Complete an accredited DSP training program.
13. A supported individual is prescribed an antiepileptic medication. What side effect should a DSP monitor for and report? → Unusual drowsiness, confusion, mood changes, or increased seizure frequency
14. Which concept ensures that individuals in HCBS programs receive services in the most integrated setting appropriate to their needs? → Community Integration mandate under the ADA and Olmstead decision
15. Which federal law prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in programs receiving federal financial assistance? → The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 504
16. A client repeatedly refuses to sign their daily activity log. The DSP should: → Document that the client refused to sign, note the date and time, and initial the entry
17. Ethical advocacy by a DSP on behalf of a person they support means: → Amplifying the person's own voice and preferences through proper channels
18. Which function of behavior involves a person engaging in a behavior to gain access to a preferred item or activity? → Tangible reinforcement
19. Which agency or organization developed the National Competency Standards that many states use to define DSP training requirements? → National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP)
20. When an accredited DSP course covers 'crisis prevention,' a key strategy emphasized is: → Recognizing early warning signs and de-escalating before a crisis occurs
21. Which statement BEST reflects an inclusion-focused mindset for a DSP? → 'She has the right to try any activity she wants — let's figure out how to make it work.'
22. The ethical principle of 'Integrity and Responsibility' requires a DSP to do all of the following EXCEPT: → Allow their personal values to guide all professional decisions.
23. In an accredited DSP course on employment support, the DSP's primary role when supporting an individual at a job site is to: → Fade support over time as the individual gains skills and confidence
24. A person's behavior support plan includes a 'crisis response procedure.' This should be used: → Only after proactive and preventive strategies have failed to keep everyone safe
25. Which of the following best describes the concept of 'dignity of risk' in DSP ethics? → Allowing individuals to take reasonable risks as part of their autonomy
26. What is the primary purpose of identifying a person's 'positive reputation' during person-centered planning? → To recognize and build on strengths, gifts, and how others positively perceive them
27. A DSP observes a co-worker using an unauthorized physical technique during a crisis. The DSP's REQUIRED action is to: → Report the incident to a supervisor as required by policy
28. Under NADSP competency standards, which area specifically requires DSPs to understand and apply principles of person-centered planning? → Participant Empowerment
29. A person communicates their need for a break by engaging in self-injurious behavior. The BEST PBS response is to: → Teach the person an appropriate way to request a break
30. A DSP supports James, who wants to learn to cook but his plan only lists meal preparation as a DSP task. The DSP should: → Teach James cooking skills and advocate for the plan to reflect his goal