"Understanding begins when we stop trying to ‘fix’ and start learning to listen.”
Want to know what it's like to be Autistic? Watch this video and make sure your sound is up!
How can I recognize sensory distress in the field?
Look for behaviors such as:
- covering ears or eyes
- screaming or self-hitting
- rocking, pacing, or hand-flapping
- refusal of care or “freezing”
- unusual sensitivity to being touched or spoken to
Remember these are responses to discomfort- not signs of “bad behavior” or “tantrums”
What should I do if an ASD patient is nonverbal or doesn’t respond?
Remain calm, speak slowly, and use visual aids or gestures.
Avoid repeating questions loudly or touching the patient unexpectedly. Use communication cards or ask caregivers how the patient prefers to communicate.
What should I avoid doing with a sensory-sensitive patient?
- Don’t raise your voice unless necessary
- Don’t touch the patient without explaining what you are doing first
- Avoid crowding or hovering
- Try not to rush= time pressure can increase anxiety
- Turn off unnecessary lights or sirens if safe to do so
What if the patient becomes combative due to sensory overload?
Remain calm, speak slowly, and use visual aids or gestures.
Avoid repeating questions loudly or touching the patient unexpectedly. Use communication cards or ask caregivers how the patient prefers to communicate.
Is sensory sensitivity the same for every person with ASD?
- No- every individual is different.
One person may be hypersensitive to sound but love deep pressure. Another may seek intense motion, but hate flashing lights. That’s why offering a variety of tools (and letting the patient choose) can be beneficial.
Have More questions?
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