Accurate documentation and timely communication are the backbone of effective ABA services. In Unit E, RBTs learn how to professionally record, report, and communicate relevant information. This ensures consistency, accountability, and the client’s continued progress under the guidance of a BCBA.
📌 E‑01: Effectively Communicate with Your Supervisor
As an RBT, you’re part of a clinical team and work directly under the supervision of a BCBA or BCaBA.
✅ Best Practices for Communication:
- Be honest: Share successes and concerns truthfully.
- Be specific: Use objective, measurable language (e.g., “Client had 3 tantrums lasting 5 minutes” instead of “Client was bad today”).
- Ask questions: Clarify procedures you don’t understand.
- Follow the chain of command: Always report issues to your designated supervisor, not the client’s family or others.
💡 Example: If a new behavior emerges that’s not in the plan, notify your supervisor with details about when, where, and how often it occurred.
📌 E‑02: Actively Seek Clinical Direction When Unfamiliar Situations Arise
You’re not expected to know everything. If you’re unsure about how to handle a situation:
- Pause and avoid taking unsupervised action.
- Document what occurred.
- Contact your supervisor for guidance.
- Follow written protocols until you’re instructed otherwise.
💡 Example: If a client becomes aggressive in a new way that’s not covered in the behavior plan, seek immediate direction rather than reacting independently.
📌 E‑03: Describe How to Document Professional Work
Documentation must be objective, factual, and timely.
✅ What to Record:
- Behavior data (e.g., frequency, duration, intervals).
- Client responses to programs/interventions.
- Prompts used and level of independence.
- Environmental factors that may have influenced behavior.
- Incidents (e.g., injuries, aggression, elopement).
✅ Tips:
- Use nonjudgmental language.
- Avoid personal opinions or assumptions.
- Double-check for accuracy before submitting.
💡 Correct: “Client required 2 physical prompts to complete task.”❌ Incorrect: “Client was being lazy.”
📌 E‑04: Comply with Legal, Regulatory, and Workplace Requirements
RBTs must follow all rules set by:
- HIPAA (protects client privacy and health info)
- FERPA (applies in educational settings)
- BACB’s Ethics Code
- Your employer’s policies
✅ What This Means:
- Never share client info with unauthorized individuals.
- Secure data properly (e.g., password-protect tablets, lock files).
- Report any data breaches or ethical concerns immediately.
- Follow mandated reporting laws for abuse or neglect.
💡 Example: You cannot discuss a client’s diagnosis or behavior with a friend or post any info online — even anonymously.
📌 E‑05: Maintain Client Dignity
Protecting a client’s dignity is at the core of ethical ABA practice.
✅ Ways to Uphold Dignity:
- Use respectful language (never mocking or labeling).
- Gain assent whenever possible.
- Avoid power struggles; offer choices instead.
- Respect privacy during toileting, dressing, or emotional moments.
- Encourage independence and self-advocacy.
💡 Example: Allowing a client to choose between two tasks promotes autonomy while staying within the treatment plan.
✅ Wrap-Up
Unit E reminds RBTs that ethical, clear, and accurate documentation is just as important as direct therapy. Strong communication and reporting habits build trust, ensure legal compliance, and ultimately improve client outcomes.
As a responsible RBT, you are expected to:
- Document what you observe, not what you assume.
- Follow your supervisor’s direction.
- Protect client rights and confidentiality at all times.
- Know when and how to report unusual events or concerns.
📝 Ready to test your knowledge? Take the Documentation & Reporting Review Quiz below and strengthen your understanding of your professional responsibilities as an RBT.