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Autism

Also known as ASC (Autism Spectrum Condition), ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder)

This page looks at adjustments and strategies that can assist autistic healthcare professionals.

Effects / difficulties

  • Difficulty interpreting verbal and non-verbal language eg tone of voice and facial expressions
  • Literal in understanding of language
  • Difficulty reading other people
  • Sensory sensitivities
  • Repetitive/routine behaviours
  • Anxiety
    (National Autistic Society 2016)

Strengths 

  • Attention to detail
  • Good at following and developing protocols and guidelines 
  • Can view things from a different perspective
  • Problem solving skills
 
RCN Peer Support Service: Neurodiversity guidance - Share your story

Share your story

We want to hear from neurodiverse members to improve our resources. Email us today to share your story.

Students

  • Sensory breaks in exams and in practice
  • Separate room for exams
  • Additional meetings prior to transition from one area of practice to another
  • Mentor
  • Study skills support
  • Turn off/reduce background noise in online meetings
  • Longer library loans

Students should expect that their university and placement providers provide reasonable adjustments. Further support can also be accessed through Disabled Students Allowance.

Employees

  • Where possible a quieter space to perform duties.
  • Consideration of lighting, sounds including announcements
  • In some situations, use of headphones (eg. for desk work in open plan offices)
  • Use of an agreed form to aid the capture of tasks
  • Time to go through rules and expectations when starting a new role

Employers should make reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010. These may be subsidised by the government scheme Access to Work which provides non medical help (including coaching, transport) as well as equipment, based on a workplace assessment. 

Reasonable adjustments should also be provided during recruitment processes. 

See the Peer Support Service's Health Ability Passport guide for more information on reasonable adjustments. 

 

  • Consider any sensory sensitivities especially around noise/ lighting.
  • May need adjustments around clothing if sensitive to seams and labels etc. 
Photo of member Mike Parry

Mike's story

Mike is an autistic nursing associate. Read his story here.
photo of Joan

Joan's story

Read Joan's story about being an autistic nurse.
Photo of Lauren on a yellow background

Lauren's story

Lauren talks about being an autistic nurse with diagnoses of EUPD & depression. 
Photograph of Hedley

Hedley's story

A mental health nurse and clinical educator with a later life diagnosis of Asperger's (Autism), Hedley discusses the value of being able to be yourself at work. 
illustration of nursing staff on a yellow background

Join Peer Support

Speak to other neurodiverse RCN members.

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Guidance for Managers

Suggestions for supporting Neurodivergent staff.