What autism is and how it affects patients
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Autism is a lifelong developmental disorder that affects how a person communicates with, and relates, to other people, and how they experience the world around them.52 It affects people in different ways, so you should adapt your routine according to the patient’s needs. It has been suggested that approximately 45% of people with autism also have learning disabilities,53 so for these people you should refer to the section on Examining patients with learning disabilities.
References
52 The National Autistic Society. What is autism? [Accessed 18 Nov 2020]53 Fombonne, E. (2009). Epidemiology of Pervasive Developmental Disorders. Paediatric Research, 65(6), 591-598. [Accessed 18 Nov 2020]