My son had experienced abdominal pain for several days but he does not recognize pain for what it is because he has autism. As soon as I told the admitting nurses that he has autism with hyperacusis, which is sound triggers, they knew how to interact with him. They also placed him in a room far from unexpected noises. It was Jill, his assigned nurse, who employed such skill consistently that her calm voice, patient explanations, face-to-face interactions, and confident assurances made the whole unexpected experience a positive one. She showed him cheerful interest. She checked on him periodically while he drank the contrast drink for 45 minutes. Then her shift was over, but she had laid the foundation and set the tone for the next nurse.
Thank you for employing a skillful and professionally prepared team of nurses who reduced triggers and prevented episodes of confusion in my son. This helped him deal with an unknown and uncertain situation with aplomb. It also helped me because I did not have to accommodate any confusion. My son is on the brilliant end of the spectrum, graduated from college after tenaciously taking classes much longer than the usual four years while working three part-time jobs. Even though Jill did not know about his struggles she treated him with deep respect and attention. Thank you very much.