rbt D.7 Crisis Procedures

By RBThub February 23, 2026

A tantrum is annoying. A chair flying across the room is dangerous.

As an RBT, you must know the difference between a behavior that requires a "Behavior Plan" and a situation that requires a "Crisis Plan." A Crisis is defined by one thing: Danger. If you, the client, or someone else is in danger, the rules change immediately.

Executive Summary

This video covers Task D-7: Crisis & Emergency Procedures. It defines a crisis as any situation where there is danger to self or others. It explains that verbal abuse is not a crisis (even if it's mean), but throwing objects or hair pulling is a crisis. The goal of a crisis plan is safety, not teaching.

⏱️ Video Timeline

00:00
The Definition of Crisis
When you, the client, or another person are in danger. (Health, Behavior, or Environment).
01:16
What is NOT a Crisis?
Verbal abuse (cursing) is not a crisis because no one is physically in danger. Hair pulling and elopement (running away) ARE crises.
06:09
Specific Procedures
Hair Pulling: Wear hair up/hat.
Biting: Wear long sleeves (kevlar).
Throwing: Clear the room.
08:02
Restraint
A last resort. Only used when there is clear, imminent danger. Requires specific training (like PCM or CPI).

🔑 Key Insights

Prevention First: If you know a client pulls hair, wear your hair up. Don't wait to get grabbed.
Safety Over Teaching: During a crisis, stop teaching. Your only goal is to keep everyone safe.
Collaboration: Everyone (Parents, BCBA, RBTs) must be trained on the crisis plan.
Reporting: Every crisis requires an Incident Report.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is a client cursing at me a crisis?
A: No. It is unpleasant, but it is not dangerous. Follow the Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP), not the Crisis Plan.
Q: When can I use physical restraint?
A: Only as a last resort when there is imminent danger of physical harm, and only if you are certified to do so.

1. The Danger Test

Use this flowchart to decide if you need to call for help or just ignore the behavior.
Behavior Occurs Is there DANGER? Follow BIP NO CRISIS PLAN YES
Examples

Behavior (BIP): Cursing, Tearing Paper, Refusing Work.
Crisis (Safety): Hitting, Head-Banging, Running into Street, Throwing Chairs.

2. Preventative Strategies (Dress for Success)

For Biters: Wear denim, kevlar sleeves, or thick jackets. Never expose skin.
For Hair Pullers: Wear hair in a tight bun or wear a hat/beanie. Avoid ponytails (they are handles!).
For Throwers: Clear the table. Do not leave heavy items (staplers, mugs) within reach.
Positioning: Always stand between the client and the door (if they run) or the danger.

📝 Knowledge Check

Safety Check.

Q1: You are working with a new client who has a history of aggression. Before your first session, what must you read?

Answer: The Crisis / Safety Plan.
You cannot start working until you know what to do if they become dangerous.

Q2: A client screams "I hate you!" at the top of their lungs. Is this a crisis?

Answer: No.
It is verbal aggression, but there is no immediate physical danger. Follow the BIP (Behavior Intervention Plan).
▶

Reduction Quiz

Mock Exam

Test your knowledge on Safety and Crisis Protocols.

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