All new hires are required to complete the Fatal Seven training and pass the accompanying quiz with a minimum score of 80%. If the passing score is not achieved, the quiz may be retaken until the requirement is met.
Estimated completion time: 1.5 hours. Please ensure you allow sufficient time to complete the training in one sitting.
Fatal Seven Training focuses on recognizing and preventing seven critical health conditions that commonly lead to serious illness, hospitalization, or death in individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). These conditions are often underrecognized or mismanaged, making early detection and intervention essential for ensuring the health and well-being of those receiving care.
Sunny Haven requires all Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and direct care staff to complete Fatal Seven Training because individuals with IDD may have difficulty communicating pain, discomfort, or symptoms of illness, increasing their risk for serious health complications. Proper training ensures staff are equipped to recognize early warning signs and take immediate action.
Aspiration – Inhaling food, liquids, or vomit into the lungs, which can cause pneumonia.
Constipation & Bowel Obstruction – Severe constipation can lead to life-threatening blockages.
Dehydration – Lack of fluids can cause confusion, kidney failure, and other complications.
Seizures – Unrecognized or poorly managed seizures can result in serious injury or death.
Infections – Untreated infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs) and pneumonia, can rapidly worsen.
Sepsis – A life-threatening response to infection that can lead to organ failure and death.
Unrecognized Trauma – Injuries that go unnoticed due to communication barriers, leading to delayed treatment.
✔ Prevention & Early Intervention – Staff learn how to identify symptoms early, reducing the risk of medical crises.
✔ Improved Care & Quality of Life – Recognizing and addressing these conditions improves overall health outcomes.
✔ Regulatory Compliance – Many oversight agencies require staff to be trained in recognizing and responding to medical emergencies.
✔ Enhancing Staff Confidence – Equips employees with the knowledge to respond quickly and appropriately in a medical situation.
All new hires must complete Fatal Seven Training before working independently.
Annual refresher training is required to ensure staff stay updated on best practices.
Failure to complete or renew Fatal Seven Training on time may result in removal from the schedule until compliance is met.
By requiring Fatal Seven Training, Sunny Haven ensures that staff are prepared to recognize, prevent, and respond to these life-threatening conditions—ultimately protecting the health and safety of the individuals we support.
Informational Sheet on each
of the Fatal Seven's
Quiz