Quick Facts for EMS

In response to an emergency, EMS workers are often the first people at the scene. As they attend to the person or people involved in the crisis, they may not be aware that the person has an autism spectrum disorder. If this is the case, the EMS worker will need to respond in a different way, while providing the quickest and most efficient care possible. Sometimes the ability of these EMS workers to respond in an effective timely manner will save the person’s life.

Since people with autism spectrum disorders may respond differently to certain stimuli and medical examinations, it is crucial for EMS workers to be able to recognize certain signs that may indicate the person is on the spectrum and alter their method of treatment accordingly.