The Needs of Hospitalized Patients With Autism Spectrum Disorders

Abstract

In a population of children with ASDs, parents report a diverse range of needs while in the hospital. These data support the concept that a pragmatic assessment of individual communication and sensory differences is likely to be essential in the development of an appropriate inpatient care plan.

Toward Practice Advancement in Emergency Care for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

“…A recent survey of parents of hospitalized children with ASD highlights the need for health care providers to gain sufficient knowledge about the communication and sensory needs of a child with ASD when developing her or his care plan. 5 The literature identifies multiple barriers to this care given the difficulties that some children with ASD experience, such as hypersensitivity to stimuli including sound, touch, and transition. [6][7][8][9] Communication barriers are reported to potentially heighten anxiety for the child and increase misunderstanding between others involved in care.…”

“…6 Parents report sensitivities that can affect functioning and care experience. 5 Thus, there are a range of factors that merit consideration for individual care planning and heighten caution in assessing ED or hospital presentation of a child with ASD. 5 Environmental challenges are increasingly recognized because the ED is intensive and unpredictable and therefore may trigger adverse responses.…”

A Pilot Study of Autism-Specific Care Plans During Hospital Admission

“…These questions were based on our previous work looking at parent report of ASDrelated needs during hospital visits and included questions about safety, staff communication, and sensory issues. 8 Finally, we asked 5 questions about ASD-specific concerns during a hospital admission (eg, safety concerns, concerns about the physical examination), which were also based on our previous work. 8 Parents were asked to think only of their most recent hospital admission when responding.…”

“…8 Finally, we asked 5 questions about ASD-specific concerns during a hospital admission (eg, safety concerns, concerns about the physical examination), which were also based on our previous work. 8 Parents were asked to think only of their most recent hospital admission when responding. We determined reliability by using…”

“…7 A recent survey found that half of parents of children with ASD reported safety concerns for their children while in the hospital. 8 Physician comfort in caring for children with ASD may play a role in their difficulties with hospital care. Studies show that general pediatricians do not feel adequately prepared to care for children with ASD.…”