MHM Magazine

12 | MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS | 2023 | Issue 3 MHM Individuals with ADHD may struggle with processing information and following instructions, particularly in a fast-paced and high-stress environment like a hospital. They may have difficulty focusing on key details, listening attentively, or organising their thoughts effectively, which can impact their ability to communicate with healthcare providers. Impulsivity and hyperactivity are common symptoms of ADHD. In a hospital, these traits can be challenging to manage, especially when patients need to stay still or remain calm during procedures, tests, or treatments. The need for extended periods of sitting or lying down can be particularly demanding for individuals with ADHD, leading to restlessness and difficulty complying with medical instructions. Hospital settings often involve multiple appointments, procedures, and tests. Adults with ADHD may struggle with time management and organisation, leading to missed appointments or difficulties in adhering to schedules. This can result in delays in receiving appropriate care and increased frustration for both the patient and the healthcare team. Emotional dysregulation is another common challenge for adults with ADHD. Stress, pain, and uncertainty in a hospital setting can exacerbate these emotional difficulties. Managing anxiety, frustration, and other intense emotions can be a significant challenge, potentially impacting the overall well-being and cooperation of the patient. Transitioning from the hospital back to everyday life can be challenging for individuals with ADHD. They may struggle with maintaining follow-up care, understanding discharge instructions, or organising necessary appointments and medications. STRATEGIES THAT CAN BE HELPFUL IN SUPPORTING ADHD PATIENTS IN A GENERAL HOSPITAL SETTING Creating a consistent and structured daily routine can be immensely helpful for individuals with ADHD. Healthcare providers can collaborate with patients to establish a schedule that includes regular mealtimes, medication administration, and other activities. Visual aids, such as calendars or schedules, are useful for the health care providers to help patients keep track of their daily routines. Providing a quiet and calm environment, with dimmer lights and reduced noise levels, can help minimise sensory distractions for patients with ADHD. Dimming lights for an hour during the day and displaying a notice board “quiet time” would be a good example. Access to sensory aids, such as noise-cancelling headphones or fidget tools, can also be beneficial. Admitting the patient in a private or semi-private room will alleviate the noise disturbances. Changes in the dietary requirements of the patient should be discussed, and involving a dietician would be beneficial to the patient. Healthcare providers should be aware of the unique medication needs of patients with ADHD. Efforts should be made by the health care worker to maintain consistency in medication schedules and dosages, and patients should be educated about any changes in their medication routine. Healthcare providers should use clear and simple language when communicating with patients with ADHD. Patients should be encouraged to ask questions and express their concerns, and healthcare providers should actively listen and provide additional support as needed. Patients should be kept informed of the activities and should there be any change in the activities it must be clearly communicated to the patient. Recognising that every patient with ADHD is unique, individualised care plans should be developed to address their specific needs. TIPS TO SHARE WITH YOUR ADHD PATIENTS WHEN IN HOSPITAL: Navigating challenges related to ADHD in a hospital setting can be demanding, but with proper strategies and support, you can effectively manage your symptoms and ensure a successful experience. • Inform the hospital staff: Notify the hospital staff about your ADHD diagnosis and any specific accommodations you may require. • If you take medication for ADHD, ensure that you have an adequate supply with you during your hospital stay. Should the medication be prescribed as chronic your own supply will be used. • Plan to minimise stress and disorganisation by making use of tools like calendars, reminders, or smartphone apps to keep track of appointments, tests, and medication schedules. • Be your own advocate and communicate your needs clearly. If you require a quieter space or additional support express these needs to the hospital staff. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if you don’t understand something. • Hospitals can be overwhelming, so having familiar items that provide comfort and reduce anxiety can be helpful as per hospital policies. • Hospitals are often busy and noisy environments. Consider using noise-cancelling headphones, earplugs, or playing calming music to minimise distractions and improve focus. • Large or complex tasks can be overwhelming, breaking them down into smaller, more manageable steps, can make them less daunting. Prioritise your tasks and tackle them one at a time. • When visiting the medical practitioner, the patient should be informed and encouraged to make use of the pre-admission app on the preferred providers’ web site. This will ensure that most of the administrative tasks will be on record on the day of admission and will lessen the anxiety for the patient. Remember, everyone's experience with ADHD is unique, so it is important to find strategies that work for you. References available on request.