After reporting a "special incident" by telephone, what must the DSP do next?

When reporting a "special incident" by telephone, it is essential for the Direct Support Professional (DSP) to follow up with a written report to the regional center within a specified timeframe, often within 48 hours. This ensures that there is a formal, documented account of the incident, which is crucial for maintaining accurate records, monitoring incidents for patterns, and ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals receiving support.

Submitting a written report helps to provide a clear and comprehensive overview of the incident, which can be crucial for further investigations or follow-up actions that may be necessary. It also establishes accountability and helps to ensure that the appropriate protocols are followed in managing incidents. This procedure is typically outlined in policies and training, emphasizing the importance of documentation in the role of a DSP.

In contrast, while communicating with the regional center or local authorities may involve other actions such as requesting acknowledgment or documenting the name of the representative spoken to, these actions do not fulfill the immediate requirement for a written report, which is a critical next step after verbal reporting.