Exam Pass Notes

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Trauma-Informed Basics

• Assume trauma may be present without asking for a trauma history.
• Speak calmly and predictably. Explain why you need to ask particular questions.
• Respect privacy and confirm the safest way to contact the patient.

Communication

• Ask only the questions needed for the task.
• Offer clear choices when options exist.
• Use short sentences and explain the next steps.
• Avoid asking sensitive questions in public or repeating them to the patient.

Risk and Safeguarding

• Escalate concerns about self-harm, abuse, safeguarding or immediate danger promptly.
• Do not promise confidentiality when safety is at risk.
• Do not manage serious risk alone; involve appropriate colleagues or services.

Records and Support

• Record facts, the patient’s exact words and observed actions without diagnostic labels.
• Use handover notes to prevent the person from having to retell distressing details.
• Staff should receive debrief and support after distressing contacts.