Abstract

This article provides an insight for clinical nurse prescribers who may have limited knowledge of the implications of autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) ontheir practice. It will provide an insight into the common characteristics of the condition, alongside an overview
of contextual and situational issues of direct relevance to sensory overload and underload. Through this, awareness is raised of how specific adaptations to practice might be made to support and empower those people living with the condition, and their families and carers. The need for individualised, holistic care is emphasised alongside information of specific relevance to the practicalities of nurse prescribing in practice. The article also outlines the issues of polypharmacy and pharmacotherapy of relevance to patients with ASD and the precursors to these, which can be readily identified in practice.

Key words: Autistic spectrum disorder; autism; intellectual disability; communication; sensory overload