“Can anyone recommend a insert profession here who understands how to work with special needs children?” – A common query from parents of children with special needs on local support forums.
Last year marked the first time my son managed to complete a dental appointment with minimal distress. Initially, he exhibited signs of anxiety, flapping, screaming, and even producing that unmistakable odor reminiscent of a sea slug evading threats. However, Dr. Mark (not his actual name) skillfully handled the situation. My son underwent his first dental X-rays, a thorough examination involving various dental tools, and surprisingly left the clinic with a smile.
The charm of Dr. Mark is undeniable. fixes collar, adjusts glasses
This principle holds true for all children on the autism spectrum. Once you discover effective strategies to alleviate their anxiety, the experience tends to improve significantly. Conversely, if you mishandle the situation, it can lead to overwhelming panic that may take considerable effort to resolve.
Interestingly, Dr. Mark did not seem to recall his previous successful approach during our recent visit. My son exhibited visible signs of distress, prompting Dr. Mark to adopt a more cautious demeanor. In a moment worthy of an Oscar, I announced my intention to step out to the restroom (as appointments often go smoother when I’m not in sight). Dr. Mark quickly reassured my son, saying, “That’s fine. I’ll take a look at your teeth, and your mom will be right back. Everything is okay.”
I stood just outside the room, listening as he firmly reassured my son. Upon glancing in, I found my son in the corner, clutching a toothbrush and some familiar toothpaste, while the dentist calmly tended to him. After the appointment, Dr. Mark suggested, “Could you come back in three months? It seems that having mom wait outside is beneficial. Next time, I plan to adopt a more direct approach, as it seems to resonate better with him.”
I expressed my gratitude for his patience and insight. He responded, “Each child responds differently, sometimes even from one visit to the next.”
Absolutely. Every child is unique, and their needs can fluctuate from one appointment to another. Yes, Dr. Mark, you’ve perfectly articulated the approach required when working with autistic patients. Recognizing their individuality and adapting your methods is crucial during every interaction. It’s akin to how one would treat any other patient.
Acknowledging Other Medical Professionals
Additionally, a nod to other medical professionals who understand this:
- To the prosthetist who came to our van for years to fit my son’s braces.
- To the rehabilitation doctor who instinctively began using sign language when she noticed my son might not grasp her verbal cues.
- To the hospital nurse who directly asked my son for his name, age, and school, rather than speaking to me in front of him.
Medical anxiety is a significant concern for many autistic individuals. The overwhelming sensory environment, difficulty expressing themselves, and fear of the unknown can create a daunting experience for both the patient and their caregiver. At a recent specialist appointment, my son became tearful and anxious. The staff suggested two options: either I could physically restrain my 12-year-old in my lap, or the doctor and two staff members could forcibly hold him down.
I couldn’t help but reflect on how terrifying that scenario would be if I were in his position, facing three individuals much larger than myself suddenly holding me down. If I was already anxious about speaking in the hallway, I would surely be even more so after such an experience!
It may seem surprising that some medical offices are ill-equipped to accommodate their increasing number of autistic patients. However, physicians often have limited time and may lack specific training in working with individuals with disabilities. As parents, we strive to ensure that every detail is attended to, so that each visit is as smooth as possible.
Doctors, take a page from Dr. Mark’s book. His approach embodies the key to effectively connecting with all your patients. Remember, they are individuals, and it is essential to discern their needs on any given day and respond accordingly. We, as parents, will handle the rest.
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In summary, the key takeaway for medical professionals is to recognize and respect the individuality of each autistic patient, adapting their approach as necessary to foster a more positive healthcare experience.