The Do’s and Don’ts for improving the experience of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder in health care settings

Communication Dos for People with Autism Spectrum Disorders

1.    Minimize waiting time and facilitate progression through admission etc quickly. If waiting is unavoidable, find a quiet secluded waiting area.

2.    Explain why and how you need to touch him/her. Use pictures, diagrams and written information to complement verbal

3.    Get all the information you can from the carer who know best the person’s needs and the best approach

4.    Be aware that expressive language may not match age or behavior

5.    Try to locate the bed in a quiet part of the ward and inform all staff of this need.

6.    Discuss the young person’s medical history and diagnosis in plain language that s/he can understand even if they do not appear to be listening.

7.    Recognize that the person may not make eye contact, may ignore verbal communication and may exhibit unusual behaviors.

8.    Recognize that repetitive behaviors may be used to reduce anxiety and distress particularly in unfamiliar environments.

9.    Ascertain specific food preferences and if choices are not available ask the family to supply the desired food

10. Give clear unambiguous explanations with realistic timescales and support with written information where possible.

Predictability = stability!

Communication Don’ts for People with Autism Spectrum Disorders

1.    Make the person with an Autism Spectrum Disorder endure prolonged waiting time unless there is no alternative

2.    Initiate physical contact without first warning them or explaining what you plan to do

3.    Make assumptions about the person or the carers’ needs, ask for information or clarification

4.    Forget that it may be frightening if the person either doesn’t understand or takes things literally.

5.    Expect the person and family to cope with a noisy environment e.g. from equipment, phones ringing etc.

6.    Assume that because a young person doesn’t speak he/she doesn’t understand what is being said. The person may understand fully but may not give any indication of this.

7.    Ignore the person or exclude them from conversations with their carer(s)

8.    Allow behaviors such as flapping, spinning, or ignoring staff to inhibit communication

9.    Expect the person to eat food that may be different in presentation, kind, color, shape or texture.

10. Spring surprises, adaptation to change is very difficult for persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The above information is based on an original idea by Grant, J. Do's and Dont's for communicating with children on the autism spectrum.

The content is copyrighted and reproduced and/or adapted after receiving permission from Dr. Janice Grant, School of Health & Society ,Mary Seacole Building,Frederick Road Campus M6 6PU.