Patient- and Family-Centered Care for the Emergency Admission of a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Patient- and Family-Centered Care (PFCC), an evolving healthcare model, places patients and their families at the center of care, promoting collaboration between healthcare providers and families. We report the case of a 5-year-old boy with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who required emergency hospitalization for nephrotic syndrome. Severe anxiety and behavioral difficulties hindered routine medical procedures. Applying the PFCC approach, a multidisciplinary team-including a child psychiatrist and child life specialist-collaborated closely with the family to develop a personalized care plan based on detailed developmental history and behavioral assessment. Strategies included positive language, visual schedules, and stuffed animals to demonstrate procedures, thereby reducing anxiety and improving cooperation. These interventions enabled the patient to adapt to the hospital environment, comply with treatment, and achieve remission after one month. Post-discharge follow-up revealed continued medication adherence. The family's involvement was crucial, enhancing communication and ensuring consistent care. The PFCC approach not only improved the boy's medical outcomes but also fostered trust and collaboration. The case emphasizes the importance of adopting PFCC, especially for children with developmental disabilities like ASD, to provide compassionate and effective care, ensuring long-term success. As the prevalence of developmental disabilities rises, the PFCC model will become increasingly essential in healthcare, being of significance not only in pediatric care but also for all medical professionals.