“Does anyone know a insert professional here who is good with special needs children?” – a common plea from every parent navigating the special needs community.
Last year marked a significant milestone for my son: his first dental appointment where he left without a complete meltdown. Initially, he was flapping his hands, screaming, and emitting that distinct anxiety sweat, reminiscent of a sea slug trying to ward off predators. However, Dr. Sam (not his actual name) managed to connect with him in a truly remarkable way. My son experienced his first X-rays and a comprehensive dental exam, complete with all the tools that typically send him into a panic, yet he left the office grinning.
Dr. Sam’s charm is undeniable. touches up makeup, takes a deep breath
This experience highlights a universal truth about children on the autism spectrum: once you decipher how to alleviate their anxiety, interactions can significantly improve. Conversely, if a situation is mishandled, it can lead to a level of panic that takes considerable time and effort to overcome.
Interestingly, Dr. Sam seemed to forget the successful strategies from our previous visit. During our recent appointment, my son was visibly anxious and attempting to maintain composure, prompting Dr. Sam to adopt a gentler approach. In a dramatic fashion, I announced my intention to step out to the restroom (which often helps my son focus better). Without missing a beat, Dr. Sam reassured him, saying, “That sounds fine. I’ll just check your teeth while your mom steps out, and everything will be alright.”
I stood just outside the exam room, hearing him calmly reassure my son. When I peeked in, I found my son in the corner holding a toothbrush and toothpaste from home while Dr. Sam gently dabbed his face with gauze. At the end of the visit, Dr. Sam suggested, “Could you come back in three months? I think we learned that it’s better for Mom to wait outside. Next time, I’ll be firmer and more direct, as that approach seems to work best for him.”
I expressed my gratitude for his insight and patience. He replied, “Every child reacts differently—sometimes even from one visit to the next.”
Bam. Every child is unique in their needs, and this is especially true for those on the autism spectrum. Medical professionals must remember this individuality during each visit and adjust their approach accordingly.
Shout-out to the other medical practitioners who have also grasped this concept:
- To the orthotist who would meet us in our van for years to cast my son’s feet for braces.
- To the physical medicine doctor who immediately began using sign language when she realized my son might not fully understand her verbal instructions.
- To the hospital nurse who engaged directly with my son, asking him his name and age instead of addressing me right in front of him.
Medical anxiety can be overwhelming for many autistic individuals, compounded by sensory overload, communication barriers, and fear of the unknown. We recently had an appointment with a specialist where my son was visibly upset and frightened. The options presented to us were either for me to hold my 12-year-old down or for the doctor and two staff members to physically restrain him.
I couldn’t help but wonder how I would feel if two men much larger than me suddenly appeared and restrained me without warning. It’s a terrifying thought, isn’t it?
It may seem strange to some that medical offices aren’t equipped to handle the increasing number of autistic patients, but many physicians have limited time and little training in working with individuals with disabilities. As parents, we strive to ensure every detail is accounted for to facilitate a smooth office visit.
Doctors can learn from Dr. Sam’s example. His approach provides a blueprint for success with all patients. Remember they are individuals; assess their needs each time, and adapt accordingly. We parents will handle the rest.
For further insights on parenting and medical experiences, consider checking out this article on our other blog, which covers related topics. Also, for those looking to boost fertility, Make a Mom offers excellent resources. For comprehensive information on pregnancy, Medical News Today is an invaluable source.
Summary
This article emphasizes the importance of recognizing the unique needs of autistic children in medical settings. Through the experiences of a parent, it highlights how individualized approaches from healthcare professionals can make a significant difference in reducing anxiety and ensuring successful visits. Encouraging doctors to adapt their techniques based on each child’s needs is crucial for positive outcomes.