Obtaining a History
¨Assess baseline communication style
¨Medication history essential
¨History of seizures
¨Assess and obtain a baseline of ADLs
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Because a client may be non-verbal, increased agitation or aggressive may be indicative of increased stress or distress, it would be helpful to know what is different behavior.
“Adults with developmental disabilities are prescribed 10 chronic or prn medications”Anderson, 2001.  The potential for over or under dosing as well as drug interactions is significant.  Again, assess changes and seek input from caregivers