'Absolute angel' helped autistic boy face surgery

A mother has praised a specialist who helps children cope with being in hospital for ensuring her autistic son's "voice was heard" ahead of dental surgery.

Rosie said before 14-year-old Dylan's treatment at Kettering General Hospital (KGH), play specialist coordinator Claire Green had "listened to us" and "explained each stage in a way he could manage".

After being nominated by Dylan's family, Green won a Star Award, given to staff at the University Hospitals of Northamptonshire (UHN) who show exceptional dedication to make a difference to patients.

"Claire was a breath of fresh air – an absolute angel - who consistently went above and beyond during an extremely anxious time," said Rosie.

Dylan has since fully recovered from the surgery.

The health trust that runs KGH said Green had shared Dylan's needs with "everyone involved" and had helped create a personalised visual guide to familiarise the teenager with the procedure and the steps that led to it.

She then showed him some of the medical equipment in a safe, controlled way before the surgery took place.

Rosie added: "We had a hospital passport prepared for Dylan which Claire shared with the wider team.

"Being able to see the equipment beforehand and knowing what to expect made a huge difference.

"Dylan felt calmer and more in control, and we felt listened to and supported as a family."

Dylan said it had been helpful to "see everything and have everything explained".

Green said: "Understanding his unique needs and making sure his voice was heard meant we were able to make his stay as comfortable as possible.

"This included recognising shifts in his body language so we could pause when needed to allow him to process information before becoming overwhelmed."

She said it had been a "complete surprise" to receive the award.

She added that the play specialist teams at KGH and Northampton General Hospital aimed to listen to each patient's needs and to make adjustments.

Green said small changes could make "a significant difference".

Robin Binks, chief nurse at UHN, said: "We are delighted that Claire played a pivotal role in this successful outcome.

"Her nomination reflects UHN's commitment to compassionate care and shows how a patient-centred approach can transform a person's hospital experience."

Hospital play specialists are trained professionals who help children cope with medical procedures using play and activities to reduce anxiety.

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