David Wachob and Lou Pesci, Department of Kinesiology,
Health, and Sport Science, published an article titled “Knowledge and confidence of emergency medical
service personnel involving treatment of an individual with Autism Spectrum
Disorder” in an upcoming issue of the Journal of Autism and
Developmental Disorders.
The purpose of this study was to determine the knowledge and
confidence of EMS personnel on
interacting and treating an individual with ASD. Emergency medical technicians and paramedics
were surveyed on their knowledge of ASD familiarity or experience with ASD,
and level of comfort responding to emergencies involving an individual with
ASD.
The results found that
autism-specific training and resources were associated with higher comfort
levels, but not knowledge. It was also determined that newer and younger
professionals had higher knowledge and comfort when compared to the more
experienced and older professionals.
The Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders is
the leading peer-reviewed, scholarly periodical focusing on all aspects of
autism spectrum disorders and related developmental disabilities. JADD is committed to advancing the
understanding of autism, including potential causes and prevalence, diagnosis
advancements, and effective clinical care, education, and treatment for all
individuals.