Archived Abstracts
The Need for Change in Emergency Medical Approach When Caring for Individuals with Autism
Location
Memorial Ballroom, Hall Campus Center
Access Type
Open Access
Entry Number
39
Start Date
4-8-2020 12:00 PM
End Date
4-8-2020 1:15 PM
Department
Nursing
Abstract
This project seeks to reveal the need for policy changes and additional training related to caring for individuals with autism in emergency situations. A literature review was completed and improvements suggested to improve healthcare for patients with autism spectrum disorder. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder are at risk for receiving inadequate care due to the challenges that come with such a complex diagnosis. Depending on the severity of autism for each individual, behavioral outbursts and aggression can often occur due to the overwhelming amount of stimulation in the emergency department environment. While medical professionals have the potential to be a great help during times of crisis, there is often very little training given to providers in regards to delivering care to patients with autism spectrum disorder. While there are individuals who see the need for change related to emergency care for patients with autism spectrum disorder, there are not nearly enough medical professionals trained to deliver such care. With the correct training and policies in place in the emergency department, the hospital setting can be a safer place for patients with autism spectrum disorder.
Faculty Mentor(s)
Dr. Lisa JamersonDr. Kristin ShargotsDr. Nancy Cowden
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The Need for Change in Emergency Medical Approach When Caring for Individuals with Autism
Memorial Ballroom, Hall Campus Center
This project seeks to reveal the need for policy changes and additional training related to caring for individuals with autism in emergency situations. A literature review was completed and improvements suggested to improve healthcare for patients with autism spectrum disorder. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder are at risk for receiving inadequate care due to the challenges that come with such a complex diagnosis. Depending on the severity of autism for each individual, behavioral outbursts and aggression can often occur due to the overwhelming amount of stimulation in the emergency department environment. While medical professionals have the potential to be a great help during times of crisis, there is often very little training given to providers in regards to delivering care to patients with autism spectrum disorder. While there are individuals who see the need for change related to emergency care for patients with autism spectrum disorder, there are not nearly enough medical professionals trained to deliver such care. With the correct training and policies in place in the emergency department, the hospital setting can be a safer place for patients with autism spectrum disorder.