Strategies, Problems, and Management

 

Blog 3: Strategies, Problems, and Management

Instructional Strategies

Instructional strategies focus on teaching students how to participate actively in their own care and equipment use. For example, students who use wheelchairs or positioning devices can be encouraged to anticipate when equipment will be needed, signal when they are uncomfortable, or request adjustments. This type of participation builds independence and self-advocacy, even if the actions are small. Students may also learn to follow routines such as scheduled repositioning, using visual or auditory signals as cues. When taught systematically, these strategies help students become less passive during care routines and more engaged in their own well-being. For Education Assistants (EAs), this means looking for opportunities to prompt student participation, encourage communication, and reinforce efforts to self-direct. The classroom can be an excellent place to practice these strategies by embedding them into transitions and daily routines. Over time, these small skills accumulate into greater independence and confidence. By supporting students in practicing self-advocacy and choice-making, EAs help ensure that health and mobility routines become educational opportunities rather than tasks done “to” the student.

School Bus Safety Wheelchair Loading & Unloading Procedures

https://youtu.be/ftxoxqPqQkI

Problems and Emergencies

While instructional strategies focus on building independence, safety is always the first priority. Problems and emergencies can arise when equipment is misused or when students experience discomfort. Handling must never cause pain or be forced. Signs of distress such as grimacing, crying, redness, or refusal must be taken seriously. EAs should know how to stop immediately and report issues to teachers or therapists. Common problems include poor positioning, skin breakdown from pressure, or unsafe transfers. Emergencies may involve equipment malfunctions or accidents, such as a fall during a transfer. In these cases, staff must act quickly by applying first aid, calling for medical support, and ensuring the student’s dignity is maintained throughout. Proper training in handling techniques is essential to prevent such situations. For EAs, this means paying close attention to a student’s signals, being proactive in preventing harm, and knowing emergency procedures outlined in the student’s Individualized Health Plan (IHP). Your role is not just physical support—it’s vigilance. By being observant and responsive, you protect both safety and dignity, turning potentially dangerous situations into opportunities to build trust with the student and their family.

Management Issues

Effective management is the foundation of safe and consistent support for students with health or equipment needs. Individualized Health Plans (IHPs) and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) specify how equipment should be used, who is responsible for training, and what to do in emergencies. Therapists may provide technical training, while teachers and EAs carry out daily implementation. EAs are often the ones who see students most regularly, making accurate documentation essential. Data sheets should record when, how long, and what type of equipment was used, as well as any issues or student feedback. These records allow the educational team to evaluate effectiveness, ensure accountability, and adjust strategies as needed. Consistency is key—students must experience the same safe procedures across staff and settings. For EAs, strong communication with teachers and therapists is part of effective management. Sharing observations, reporting problems quickly, and keeping detailed logs ensures that all team members have the information they need. Ultimately, management is not just paperwork—it is a safeguard for student health, independence, and dignity. By taking your role seriously, you contribute directly to the student’s well-being and long-term success.

Takeaway for EAs

As an EA, you are not just “helping” with equipment—you are protecting safety and ensuring dignity. Your careful attention and accurate documentation make you a key partner in the student’s well-being.