C.M.R. 14, 197, ch. 5, app 197-5-ONE
A. The Planning Team must incorporate a Functional Assessment to develop an individualized Positive Support Plan. The Positive Support Plan and the Functional Assessment may be a combined document or separate documents.
B. The Planning Team must develop a procedure for documentation and review of the use of all strategies. At a minimum this documentation must be reviewed and approved by the Planning Team annually.
C. A Functional Assessment is an analysis that evaluates what may be contributing to the Challenging Behavior including, but not limited to:
1. The overall quality of a Person's life, including:
a. Communication;
b. Relationships;
c. Environmental conditions or sensory factors;
d. Daily activities;
e. Communicative intent of the behavior; and
f. Unmet needs.
2. The presence of a diagnosed medical or mental illness or neurological condition that may contribute to the Challenging Behavior including:
a. Symptoms of the diagnosed condition;
b. Recommended treatment;
c. Medications, including the Psychiatric Medication Support Plan; and
d. Potential side effects of treatment.
3. Consultation by physical therapy, occupational therapy or communication specialists as issues are evident or when sensory related issues exist;
4. Factors or events that increase the likelihood of Challenging Behavior;
5. When, where and how often the Challenging Behavior occurs, and the history of the behavior;
6. Factors or events that increase the likelihood of desirable behavior; and
7. All hypotheses about the function or purpose of the Challenging Behavior, including what the Person is trying to communicate by engaging in the behavior.
D. The Functional Assessment must be:
1. Completed by, or in consultation with, a person who has been designated by the Planning Team and who has training and experience in behavior analysis and Positive Supports;
2. Based on direct observation of the Person, interviews with the Person and significant others, including family where appropriate, caregivers and team members;
3. Based on review of available information such as assessments and reportable events; and
4. Updated every three years, or more often as needed.
C.M.R. 14, 197, ch. 5, app 197-5-ONE