A hospital visit can be a frightening experience for anyone.  The challenges autism or other developmental disabilities present can complicate things significantly for the individual, their family and the hospital staff.  This workshop addresses emergency room visits, extended hospital stays and outpatient procedures.  It includes strategies for communicating effectively with patients with ASD, reducing anxiety for patients and their families, addressing sensory issues and problem behavior.  It includes video examples and is appropriate for all hospital staff who provide treatment and care.

Workshop Objectives Include:

• Gaining an awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), signs and symptoms
• How to recognize children who may have or be at risk of having ASD or other developmental disabilities
• Techniques and Strategies for Intervention—What to do and what not to do
• Bridging the gap between health care professionals, who are often not specifically trained to recognize the characteristics and how to support the special needs of this population and the patients and families who require care and treatment