Virginia Beach EMS Ambulances Carrying Sensory Kits for Patients with Autism and Sensory Challenges

During a 911 response, the flashing lights and shrill sirens from an ambulance can be a triggering experience for patients with sensory sensitivities. 

“When a patient is overstimulated or unable to communicate through regular conversation, our providers may not receive accurate information or understand exactly what is going on with the patient,” said Bailey Hartley, Virginia Beach EMS paramedic. “Effective communication is imperative to ensure that the patient is treated appropriately, and our first responders can provide clinical excellence.”  

Hartley wanted to address the communication gap between providers and neurodivergent patients, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder.  

Comfort During Emergencies 

Inspired by her 4-year-old son’s experience, Hartley created an initiative that helps first responders recognize and support patients of all ages with sensory issues, developmental delays or communication needs during emergencies.  

The COLT Kit Initiative is named after her son, Colt, who has level 3 autism.  

COLT stands for:  

• Communicate effectively  
• Observe sensory needs 
• Lighten the overload 
• Treat with patience 

The kits are available in all VBEMS ambulances and contain: 

• Noise-canceling headphones 
• Mini dry-erase boards 
• Medical Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) charts in English and Spanish 
• Sensory regulation items/toys 
• Sunglasses for children and adults 

Compassionate Care 

Some neurodivergent individuals can become distraught when their routine is interrupted, such as during a 911 call. This is why the kits have items geared toward tactile, auditory and visual sensory relief along with the medical communication charts. A resource guide is included that details when the kit should be used, which could include calls or situations with: 

• Stimulating factors 
• A nonverbal patient 
• A language barrier 
• A need for a sensory outlet for patients with nervous energy 
• A need to keep the patient calm or focused 

Providers are given educational examples of what to observe and be aware of if a patient has sensory issues, developmental delays or communications needs. This can include nonverbal or hearing-impaired patients or a patient exhibiting stimming behavior (repetitive movements or sounds to regulate emotions) or sensory sensitivities such as touch, texture, taste, smell or sight. 

The Impact of Sensory Kits 

VBEMS’ Quality Management team is tracking data to see how the kits are impacting the community. 

“We are excited to see the results in the next few months,” Hartley said. “We would love to see these kits expanded across other first responder agencies in Virginia Beach and inspire other cities to do the same.”  

• VBEMS

EMS is an award-winning third-service agency that answers more than 56,000 calls for service annually. Through VB Rescue, EMS uses a combined career-volunteer workforce and was named a 2024 American Heart Association Mission: Lifeline Gold EMS Agency. Learn more about EMS by visiting ems.virginiabeach.gov. You can also contact Virginia Beach EMS at vbems@vbgov.com.