Adapted Emergency Care

Targeted staff training and dedicated protocols are recommended for ASD psychiatric emergency care. Recommended organisational adaptations include low-stimulation environments and direct placement in an examination room. The findings suggest psychiatric emergency care for ASD should reduce overstimulation, improve behavioural interpretation, and avoid escalation to restraint when possible. Family members and usual healthcare professionals can contribute information about baseline functioning, communication style, calming techniques, medication, and prior treatment strategies.