Autism

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What is autism?

Autism was formerly referred to as Asperger’s syndrome, however this is an outdated term now. Autism is a neurodevelopmental spectrum. It is important to remember autistic individuals have different needs, however they can often be stereotyped into a “one size fits all category”.  

Challenges associated.

Every individual will experience autism in their own way. Some challenges may include:

☀️Sensitivity to sensory stimuli can cause sensory overload

☀️Interpreting people’s behaviours, conversations and facial expressions

☀️Forming relationships/friendships with people

☀️Adapting to change

☀️Longer processing time

☀️Strict routines

☀️Strong interests and repetitive or routine behaviours.

(Autism can also be associated with anxiety disorder and other neurodivergences)

Strengths associated.

Autistic individuals may face some challenges, but they also have many amazing strengths and skills that should be embraced in nursing! Strengths/Skills may include:

☀️Academically driven.

☀️Great attention to detail.

☀️Great logical thinking skills

☀️Punctual, reliable and honest

☀️Great understanding and compliance with rules and guidelines

☀️Great problem-solving skills.

Extra information

The NICE guidance can provide some information about the diagnostic criteria for autism.

How you can support colleagues and students who are autistic?

  • Have patience!
  • Educate yourself about the challenges and strengths of autistic individuals!
  • Be mindful!
  • Be kind!

Communication tips to consider.

Anonymous student nurse stated: “When I first suspected I had autism I visited my GP with my suspicion that I may be autistic. They referred me for testing. Being diagnosed with autism answered a lot of my questions about myself and helped me understand why I get so burnt out so much and why I interpret things so literally”.

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Extra Information

Autism Understanding Scotland also suggest that individuals who are autistic may also experience double empathy problem (where empathy may be expressed differently and may be miscommunicated by both individuals concerned). Therefore it is important that neurotypical individuals understand how autistic individual communicate empathy as empathy may not be evident but it is there and is communicated in the individuals own way. Watch.

Autism Understanding Scotland also suggest that some autistic individuals can experience sensory underwhelm which means that they thrive on extra sensory input!

*This section was supported and approved by 2 autistic student nurses.

Thanks to the 2 students and Autistic Understanding Scotland who supported the information in this section. 😊