Specialized management protocols, special equipment and training of rescuers to deal with emergencies involving people with autism are introduced to the Cyprus Ambulance Service.
Noise-cancelling headphones, visual communication panels, and special sensory tools will be included in the equipment of front-line ambulances, aiming to reduce stress and sensory overload and provide emergency medical care more safely.
The initiative is implemented through the collaboration of the Cyprus Ambulance Service, the non-governmental organization Voice for Autism and SupportCY of the Bank of Cyprus, with the aim of creating a pre-hospital care system that will better meet the specific needs of people with autism.
The new program has already been put into operation and includes specialized training of ambulance crews, the introduction of special equipment and the implementation of customized incident management procedures.
The need for such an approach, said the head of the Ambulance Service, Riana Konstantinou, in her statements, arises from the special conditions that prevail during an emergency medical intervention.
Loud sirens, flashing lights, the presence of unfamiliar faces, and rapid changes of stimuli can cause severe anxiety or sensory overload in individuals with autism, making it difficult to communicate with rescuers and provide medical care.
Special protocols and sensory kits
"The training program equips rescuers with techniques to de-escalate sensory overload, alternative ways of communication and methods of adapting clinical evaluation to the needs of each patient."
It includes experiential training with emergency scenarios, as well as neurodiversity education with the participation of people with autism who represent their own needs and experiences.
At the same time, it is planned to install specialized "sensory kits" in all front-line ambulances.
The kits will include noise-canceling headphones, visual communication panels and reassuring tactile tools, which can be used according to the patient's needs to reduce discomfort triggers and facilitate communication.
The Head of the Ambulance Service, Riana Constantinou, described the collaboration as important in filling a critical gap in emergency care.
"By understanding the behaviours and sensory sensitivities associated with autism, our staff can reduce stress, instantly build trust, and provide safer and more effective medical interventions," he said.
Education for families too
Particular emphasis is also placed on the preparation of families, who will have the opportunity to participate in special educational workshops.
"The goal is for them to know what information to convey to first responders in the event of an emergency, how to set up an individual emergency profile for the person with autism, and how to help maintain a safer and calmer environment until the arrival of the ambulance."
A series of workshops is planned to take place throughout Cyprus during November.
