Sensory, communication aids help to reduce stress in autistic individuals in medical emergencies

Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) can easily be overwhelmed during emergency situations by sensory challenges such as bright lights, loud noises, and unfamiliar medical personnel. According to a survey of emergency medical services (EMS) providers, the use of some simple sensory aids and communication tools can significantly benefit autistic patients in these situations.

Eric Lombardi and colleagues studied the effects of the “Ben’s Blue Bags” Program (BBBP) implemented by the Franciscan Crown Point EMS system in northwest Indiana. The bags, available on all 60 transport vehicles in the system, contain sensory aids, headphones, a dry-erase board for communicating with nonverbal patients, and a pictogram of the human body for identifying pain or injuries.

Surveying 77 EMS providers, the researchers found that 94.2% of respondents said the BBBs improved their ability to care for individuals with ASD. “Sensory aids were deemed the most valuable component,” they say, “helping calm patients and reduce anxiety during EMS intervenetions.” They add, “All but three respondents reported that BBBs were helpful in keeping individuals with ASD calm during interactions, and 58 out of 65 paramedics found BBBs useful for calming and/or distracting patients to enable intravenous (IV) placement. Additionally, 61 respondents reported at least one instance where an unnecessary emergency room visit was avoided due to help from BBBs.”

The researchers conclude, “By equipping EMS providers with tools tailored to the unique needs of patients with ASD, the program promotes inclusivity and enhances the quality of prehospital care. This approach is in line with the principles of universal design in healthcare, which seek to accommodate diverse patient needs without requiring specialized knowledge from every provider.”

Citations

“Improving emergency medical services (EMS) care for people with autism in the prehospital setting through sensory and communication aids,” Eric Lombardi, Fred Lepore, and Collin Greer, Cureus, November 28, 2024 (free online). Address: Fred Lepore, Emergency Medicine, Franciscan Health Dyer, Dyer, Indiana 46311, [email protected].