Analysis 2.5. Comparison 2 Combined spinal-epidural versus low-dose epidural, Outcome 5 Number of women who mobilise....

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is now diagnosed in more than 1 in 100 children, so it is not surprising that anesthetists are increasingly providing care for children with this diagnosis. The diagnostic classification for ASD has recently changed and our understanding of the causes and management of ASD are also changing rapidly. This review provides a timely update to increase understanding and awareness of the problems that children with ASD experience, and to minimize perioperative problems. Current literature on premedication and the increasing use of alpha-2 agonists such as clonidine and dexmedetomidine as well as the use of old favorites midazolam and ketamine is reviewed. Some simple strategies that will improve care and decrease anxiety, like social stories, the use of tablet computers, other comfort items or games for distraction, and using favorite drinks to disguise the bitter taste of medications, are described. Remember, the parents are their child's expert and will know what agitates and settles them. Talking to them prior to the day of the procedure is ideal. The importance of staff training and having a clinical practice guideline available at every institution cannot be overstated.

Background Autism Spectrum Disorder is now diagnosed in more than 1% of children in Australia and USA. Children with autism spectrum disorder may have additional health care needs, require more specialized services for their health care, or experience more difficulties during hospital attendance. Customized care for these children may assist in decreasing potentially challenging behaviours during hospitalization. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of children with autism spectrum disorder and their caregivers during attendance for day procedures in two hospitals in Melbourne, Australia. Further, the perceptions of their health care providers were explored. Methods Twenty‐nine participants, including 14 health care providers and 15 caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder, were interviewed within 72 hours of their day procedure attendance at the Royal Children's Hospital and the Royal Dental Hospital in Melbourne, Australia. Interviews were recorded digitally, then transcribed and coded. Mixed quantitative and qualitative methods (content analysis) were used. Results Hospital attendance was often stressful. Participants identified a number of facilitating factors including good communication, clear explanations, and friendly attitudes of staff. Flexibility and individualized care of patients (such as avoiding unnecessary blood pressure measurements, and not changing into hospital gowns) were valued. Supportive aids (such as computers or special interest objects), use of social stories, and giving premedication were all considered helpful. Perceived barriers to care included prolonged waiting times for operation date as well as waiting on the day of operation, lack of private space, lack of noninvasive equipment such as cutaneous infrared thermometers, poor communication, and inadequate training of staff about autism spectrum disorder. Conclusion Providing optimal care for children with autism spectrum disorder requires a multifaceted approach that may require changes to hospital work flow, staff training, better use of aids (such as tablet computers and social stories), and premedication. Good communication and flexibility are key areas of importance.