The experiencing sensory overload project (ESOP): developing an immersive simulation experience for healthcare professionals.

Abstract

Background: Atypical sensory processing is described as a difficulty in regulating and managing sensory input in a meaningful, ordered way to make sense of the world and environment in which you find yourself. Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is common in individuals with autism, pervasive development disorders, and neurodivergent conditions [1,2,3]. The National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) [2] suggest sensory processing disorders are often overlooked by education, social, and healthcare professionals, leading to health and social inequalities with individuals less able to access ‘support and services that they need to live independently’ [2 p5]. The Experiencing Sensory Overload Project (ESOP) aims to champion inclusive practice and reduce health inequalities by encouraging and enabling healthcare professionals to reconsider their approach, and their working environments to create sensorily safe spaces for individuals who may experience sensory overload. Activity: The authors recognised there was insufficient education on SPD within the current nursing curriculum. To address this theory/practice gap, training was sought externally. This consisted of a short simulation-based activity with training delivered by carers who had experience of sensory overload. This was well evaluated by the student participants; however lecturing staff felt the training did not meet our university teaching and learning standards. The positive student feedback provided the impetus to…