ABSTRACT
Introduction: Surgical preparation for children with autism
spectrum disorders can be a challenge to perioperative staff
because of the unique individual needs and behaviors in this
population. Most children with autism function best in predictable,
routine environments, and being in the hospital
and other health care settings can create a stressful situation.
This prospective, descriptive, quality improvement project
was conducted to optimize best practices for perioperative
staff and better individualize the plan of care for the autistic
child and his or her family.
Methods: Forty-three patients with a diagnosis of autism or
autistic spectrum disorder were seen over 6 months at a suburban
pediatric hospital affiliated with a major urban pediatric
hospital and had an upcoming scheduled surgery or
procedure requiring anesthesia. Caregivers were interviewed