Neurodivergence and radiology: How medical professionals can optimise the standard of care provided to autistic paediatric patients

Abstract

Introduction Several studies have been published regarding patients with various neurodevelopmental diagnoses attending hospital appointments, however, few focus on autism and the radiology department. This paper aims to identify how implementing patient-centred strategies and protocols for autistic paediatric patients will benefit the patient pathway and provide a more comfortable experience for those undergoing different scans and procedures within the radiology department. Methods Using several electronic databases, articles were collected using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and analysed with the Critical Appraisals Skills Programme (CASP). Discussion A total of 8 articles are discussed and analysed in this review, focussing specifically on patient-centred procedures and practice, costs of healthcare services and how multidisciplinary teamwork compares to applied behavioural analysis. Results The articles concluded that the current practice of multidisciplinary working is the most beneficial for patients. Furthermore, implementing autism awareness programmes and patient-specific protocols will help reduce anxiety surrounding scans within the radiology department. Conclusion and implications for practice Implementing mandatory autism awareness programmes and continuing with the multidisciplinary approach for autistic paediatric patients would provide the best possible patient-centred care.