The Role of an Adult Chaperone
In Ketamine Therapy
Chaperoning for
At-Home Ketamine Experiences
At Almadelic, ensuring patient safety and comfort during ketamine therapy is our top priority. For patients undergoing ketamine treatment from the comfort of their own home, we require the presence of a chaperone. This trusted individual plays a vital role in providing support and assistance throughout the experience.
What is a Chaperone?
A chaperone is a responsible adult, at least 18 years old, who the patient trusts and feels at ease with. This could be a spouse, partner, close friend, family member, or roommate. It should be someone with whom the patient has a positive, uncomplicated relationship. The chaperone will be present during the at-home ketamine session to offer support and assistance as needed.
Responsibilities of the Chaperone
Before the Session:
Arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time so that you have time to help the patient prepare
Submit your contact information to Almadelic or the patient’s medical contact
Assist the patient in taking their vitals as directed and submitting to Almadelic.
Follow all instructions on the chaperone guide provided by Almadelic
During the Session:
Maintain a quiet, comfortable, distraction-free environment
Remain within earshot and check on the patient at the agreed upon intervals
Provide any needed assistance to the patient
Follow the outlined emergency protocols if necessary
After the Session:
Stay with the patient until they are fully alert, mobile, and feel secure being on their own.
Provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental presence for the patient as they transition from the altered state of consciousness back to ordinary reality.
Assist the patient with any immediate physical needs, such as helping them sit up, providing water, or offering light snacks if appropriate.
Encourage the patient to take their time in processing the experience, and offer a listening ear if they wish to discuss any insights, emotions, or thoughts that arose during the session.
Ensure that the patient is stable and grounded before leaving the treatment facility, and provide them with any necessary information or instructions for self-care and integration in the hours and days following the session.
Be supportive and informed of the process. Assist the patient in preparing for their session, ensure a safe and comfortable space, check their blood pressure and follow the guidelines for blood pressure safety, contact medical assistance when necessary, and assist the patient in walking or moving about if they experience any side effects that affect motor movement.
Potential Scenarios Requiring Chaperone Assistance
Physical Support
Music has the power to evoke emotions and memories. In a therapeutic setting, carefully selected music can resonate with a patient's emotional state, helping to facilitate introspection and emotional processing during the ketamine experience.
Technical Difficulties
While we recommend a pre-checked technological setup (charged devices, interruption-free music, etc.), the chaperone may be called upon by the therapist or patient to troubleshoot any issues that arise.
Environmental Management
Should any disruptions occur, such as unexpected noises or people entering the space, the chaperone will handle them to maintain a tranquil, focused atmosphere for the patient.
Emergencies
In the event of an emergency, the chaperone should call 911 or take the patient to the nearest ER, then immediately notify the therapist. They should also complete Almadelic's Adverse Event Form once the situation is stable.