Implementation of a Sensory Room in Pediatric Emergency Services for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Phenomenological Approach

Background/Objectives: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who attend pediatric emergency services face challenges related to their sensory, cognitive, and behavioral characteristics. This study explored the perceptions of healthcare professionals and parents regarding the need to implement a sensory-adapted room for children with ASD in the pediatric emergency department. Methods: A phenomenological qualitative study was conducted through semi-structured interviews (October–December 2024) until data saturation. Participants included healthcare professionals and parents of children diagnosed with ASD. Intentional coding and co-occurrence analysis were performed using Atlas.ti (version 25.0.1). Study approved by Research Ethics Committee (code: 204-458-1). Results: Eighteen informants participated (10 professionals and 8 parents). Professional interviews revealed three themes and eight subthemes: Professional Training (approach strategies; training received; perceived needs), Hospital Environment (resource allocation; infrastructure; perceived needs during the emergency visit), and Emotional Aspects (emotional experience related to patient care; professionals’ personal perceptions). In parents, four themes and ten subthemes were identified: Professional Training (perceptions of staff training; demonstrated emotional competencies; socioemotional relationships during care), Hospital Environment (infrastructure; perceived needs during emergency visits), Emotional Aspects (families’ experiences; emotions during care), and ASD (diagnostic characteristics; children’s needs; sensory regulation). Conclusions: Pediatric emergency services should be adapted to the needs of children with ASD. Both professionals and parents highlighted the importance of a sensory-adapted room to promote safe and humanized care. Barriers identified included lack of training, rigid protocols, and inadequate environments. Priority measures are continuous training programs, sensory infrastructure improvements, and more flexible clinical procedures, advancing toward an inclusive and comprehensive model of care.