Autism and anaesthesia: a simple framework for everyday practice

Key points: At least 1–2% of people are autistic. Most are adults without intellectual disability. Many are unrecognised. Autistic people are more likely to have co-occurring medical conditions; they experience well-described barriers to healthcare, adverse health outcomes and premature mortality. Illness or injury may present atypically and delayed presentation is common. Person-centred adaptations improve the experience of perioperative care. “Autistic SPACE” offers a framework for meeting the needs of autistic patients: Sensory needs, Predictability, Acceptance, Communication, Empathy.