Maintaining Client Dignity

Every human being deserves respect. Having a disability does not mean you lose your right to privacy or dignity.

Key Ways to Maintain Dignity

  1. Privacy: Do not toilet/change clients with the door open. Do not talk about their behaviors in front of them as if they aren't there.
  2. Choice: Allow them to make choices (what to eat, what to wear) whenever possible.
  3. Age-Appropriateness: Do not treat a 16-year-old like a baby (no "baby talk," no nursery rhymes). Treat them like a teenager.
  4. Respect: Do not laugh at their behaviors.

RBT Practice Exam Scenario

Question: "The client has a toileting accident. The RBT shouts 'Ew! You smell!' in front of the class. What did the RBT violate?"
Answer: Client Dignity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dignity

Is it okay to vent about a client?

No. Never complain about a client to others. Discuss challenges professionally with your supervisor ONLY.

What if they are non-verbal?

Speak to them normally. Assume they can understand everything you say.