Loma Linda University Health is grateful for the donation of sensory toy kits from the Autism Society of Inland Empire that help sooth young patients coming to the outpatient surgery center. The kits offer autistic children activities during the time they come to the center and before surgery begins, a prep time that can last one or two hours.
The kits include ear mufflers, a stress ball, and other manipulative toys and trinkets to help them focus and pass the time as staff members prepare them for surgery.
Perioperative tech Jessica Hernandez says parents have thanked her for offering a kit to their child, many of whom have said no other facility they’ve been to before had anything like it available. Hernandez, who has a child with autism, often has first contact with a patient and says she can quickly determine if a patient has special needs.
“When that child sees the toys that are in there, they automatically light up,” she says. “It gets them going to do vitals and to be able to trust me a little more so I can bring in other nurses and other things.”
Meghan Wilson, RN, first contacted ASIE after learning on Instagram that a local police department was partnering with the organization. To date, ASIE has donated approximately 100 kits.
“I feel like Jesus loves children and he loves those in need, so that’s why I wanted to make sure we include and care for those with special needs,” Wilson said. “Surgery with kids is hard enough, and then its more stressful on the child with autism. I think the sensory kits have helped them feel a sense of peace before and after surgery.”