We all understand the value of sensory swings, especially for kids with sensory needs.
A recent acute inpatient renovation for youth with autism has a small sensory gym on the unit. The gym is a fully supervised room behind self-closing self locking doors. We are getting pushback from the dept of health stating that the sensory swing poses a risk in the environment and does not align with the psychiatric nursing unit provisions of the Hospital Licensing Act.
Do any of you have examples of a sensory swing on inpatient unit? I’m curious if there is precedent for this or if it’s a barrier others have run into. With increasing awareness of ASD and sensory friendly design, this seems like an opportunity to raise as the standard of care for autism.
Thank you!
Brian
