The blood tests fiasco
Navigating challenges and finding humour: A parent’s journey with an autistic teen
Rose Mabiza • 7 mins read
31 July 2024
Parenting an autistic child is a journey filled with unique challenges and profound moments of joy. The hurdles can sometimes feel more daunting as the child transitions from childhood to adolescence. Recently, our family experienced a vivid example when we faced a seemingly routine task that turned into a lesson in patience, adaptability, and the power of humour.
In this blog, Rose delves into a recent experience involving a routine medical procedure that unexpectedly became a major event. This story highlights the small but significant challenges we encounter and underscores the importance of finding support and sharing our experiences.
Key facts and statistics
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects approximately 1 in 54 children in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- Medical procedures, including blood tests, can be particularly challenging for autistic individuals due to heightened sensitivities and anxiety.
- Studies show that understanding and accommodating these sensory and emotional needs can significantly improve their experiences with medical procedures.
Understanding autism and medical sensitivities
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental condition that affects how individuals perceive and interact with the world. For many autistic individuals, sensory sensitivities, anxiety, and difficulty with communication can make routine tasks, like medical appointments, particularly stressful.
When it comes to medical procedures, the challenge often lies in the sensory overload, unfamiliar environment, and the need for precise, sometimes intrusive, actions. This can lead to increased anxiety and resistance, as experienced in our recent blood test appointment.
A family experience - The blood test fiasco
The initial appointment
Last week, I took my teenage son for a routine blood test. Despite our best efforts to prepare him and make the experience as comfortable as possible, he was overwhelmed and refused to cooperate with the nurse. We tried everything—from calming techniques to offering incentives—but to no avail. The appointment ended with us leaving without the blood test being done.
The follow-up appointment
After the initial setback, the medical staff suggested we see a specialised phlebotomist who had experience working with autistic individuals. To improve our chances of success, I asked my husband to accompany our son to the appointment, as he sometimes responds better to him in stressful situations.
The unexpected outcome
To our surprise and amusement, the follow-up appointment went without a hitch. Five minutes after the appointment, my husband called me to share the good news that everything was completed smoothly. We all laughed about how the situation had unfolded so differently than we had anticipated, and I couldn’t help but feel a mix of relief and amusement.
Recommendations for parents facing similar challenges
- Prepare thoroughly - Preparation is critical. Explain the procedure in a way that is understandable and reassuring for your child. Use visual aids or social stories to help them grasp what will happen.
- Consider specialised help - Sometimes, seeking out professionals with experience working with autistic individuals can make a significant difference. They can offer more effective techniques and strategies.
- Involve the family - Having a family member who has a good rapport with your child can be beneficial in stressful situations. They may be able to provide comfort and reassurance that others cannot.
- Stay calm and patient - Your stress can exacerbate your child’s anxiety and resistance. Staying calm and patient can help you manage the situation more effectively.
- Seek support and resources - Contact organisations and support groups for additional resources and guidance. They can offer practical advice, emotional support, and a sense of community.
Conclusion
Parenting an autistic teenager comes with challenges, but it also offers humour and unexpected outcomes that remind us of our children's resilience and adaptability. The recent experience with the blood test is a testament to the importance of persistence, flexibility, and finding joy in the little victories.
The Mandatory Training Group is here to support you if you're navigating similar challenges. As a leading UK provider of autism-related content, we offer a range of resources and training solutions designed to assist parents, caregivers, and professionals. Explore our autism-related solutions to find the support and guidance you need. Together, we can make every step of the journey more accessible and more manageable.
Learn more about how you can contribute to autism awareness and understanding. Embrace the journey, cherish the moments of laughter, and know you are not alone in this adventure.
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About the author
Rose Mabiza
Rose has dedicated over 15 years to improving health and social care quality through practice, targeted education and training. Her extensive experience includes working with older adults, individuals with mental health conditions, and people with autism and learning disabilities.
