QI 171 Improving Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Support in the Early Intervention Team (EIT)

Abstract

Aim: To Improve the knowledge of early intervention team (South) regarding support and referral options for patients with suspected or confirmed autism spectrum disorder (ASD) The EI team has recently supported patients with either a new or existing diagnoses of ASD alongside their presentation of psychosis. An initial survey of the team showed there were areas where we could improve the teams knowledge. In particular of how to access referrals to key services and specific support and improving understanding of the role of different teams and services. Tools used: PDSA; Driver Diagram Project Impact: Overall an improvement in knowledge of services and referral processes was demonstrated in many areas. Results on re-assessment appeared more polarised with less “unsure” answers recorded. There has been some staff turnover during this period which may have also impacted on results. This is a specific area and although most staff will come across this at some stage it is not frequent for many team members. Further knowledge will come as they face this issue clinically and refer back to resources which have been developed or as further training opportunities arise. This initial screening work has resulted in some improvements but has also identified further areas future work can target more specifically.