RHSC
Guidelines
6.3
GUIDELINES FOR A CHILD WITH
ASPERGER’S SYNDROME IN HOSPITAL
RHSC GUIDELINES 6.3
Yorkhill Division
Nursing and Midwifery Policy Committee
Policy Number:
Policy Name:
RHSC POLICY 6.3
GUIDELINES FOR A CHILD WITH ASPERGER’S
SYNDROME IN HOSPITAL
PERSONNEL POLICY APPLIES TO:
This policy applies to all registered nurses and midwives working within
Yorkhill Division of NHS Greater Glasgow.
STATEMENT:
To provide staff with guidance/information relating to the management
of children with Asperger’s Syndrome who are admitted to RHSC.
1.0
Understanding Asperger’s Syndrome
Asperger’s Syndrome is a form of Autism, where the person has developed
language skills and usually has at least average learning ability. The child
may:
 Behave in odd ways that are not appropriate to the situation and that may
appear rude
 Take a literal understanding of what is said
 Talk at length about favourite topics
 Find it difficult to see things from another person’s point of view
2.0
Responding To Asperger’s Syndrome
 Inform parents what will happen in advance, so they can prepare the child
 Ensure that events happen in the order and manner that has been
explained to the child
 At all times be guided by the parent, who knows the child’s individual
needs and responses. Areas of potential difficulty include the following:
-
-
Routines around dressing, toileting and care
o Eating preferences and patterns
o Sleep patterns
Reactions to noise, bustle and medical intervention
 Respond with tolerance, and encourage those around you to do the same
 Keep explanations to the child simple and factual
 Avoid or minimise waiting times
What might help:
-
Where possible, allow the child to have things on his own terms
Have the child’s favourite toys and objects readily available
TV, video and computer games may occupy and calm the child
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RHSC GUIDELINES 6.3
3.0
Further Advice
Further advice can be obtained from Liaison Psychiatry on call service Monday Friday 9am - 5pm via Reception at Caledonia House.
4.0
Supporting Literature
Guidelines prepared by the Scottish Centre for Autism, Department of Child and
Family Psychiatry, Yorkhill.
5.0
Lead Author: Lesley Hunter, Ward Manager, DCFP.
6.0
Ratification
Ratified by the Director of Nursing and Patient Services
Signature:
............................................................
Date:
.............................................................
April 2000
Review July 2001
Reviewed June 2002
Reviewed September 2004
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