At the CHUV (Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois), a personalized welcome system has been created to address the specific needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and/or intellectual disabilities. This system aims to anticipate their hospitalization or outpatient appointment by considering their unique requirements.

Key Features of the Welcome System:

1. Pre-Assessment of Needs: before any hospitalization or outpatient appointment, patients with ASD, their family members, or their physicians can contact specially trained nurses. These professionals assess the patient’s specific needs, plan their stay or consultation, and establish connections with relevant caregivers.
2. Staff Training: in addition to the specially trained nurses, CHUV’s medical and paramedical staff also receive specific training in caring for patients with ASD. This ensures a comprehensive and consistent approach across all services.
3. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: the system encourages collaboration among various specialists, including psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. This holistic approach allows for tailored care based on each patient’s individual needs.
4. Predictability and Continuity of Care: a dedicated nurse consistently cares for the same patient, promoting predictability and trust. The nurse can even visit the patient’s home or attend consultations. For instance, when preparing for an MRI, the nurse can show the equipment to the patient in advance.
5. Adapted communication: Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often have different sensitivities to noise, touch, and light. The nurse takes these specificities into account and uses pictograms for non-verbal patients. Additionally, she provides detailed explanations of medical procedures to prevent surprises.
6. Relief for Family Members: The Association autisme Suisse romande welcomes this system, which spares families from having to explain their child’s difficulties to every caregiver. Appointments are better prepared, thus reducing stress for everyone..

Furthermore, it is important to note that CHUV staff also receive specific training in caring for patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), thereby promoting a comprehensive and consistent approach.

This project is cofinanced by the Fondation CHUV and the Fondation philanthropique NEXT. It was launched in June 2023 and represents a significant step forward in the care of people affected by autism .