what to expect

[GeorgiaT2468]

Can anyone explain the process to me please? My eldest DS who's almost 6 has been referred by GP to a pead for suspected ADHD-autism. What do I expect to happen please?

Thank you xx

[Tambaboy]

Our initial appointment with the paid was quite long. It was DH, me and DS. Paed asked us lots of questions about ds' development, milestones, diet, sleep etc ;family medical history; and then more specific questions about our worries. SALT had referred him so Paed had already her notes but you might find your DS gets refereed to SALT (speech and language therapist) and OT (occupational therapist) who often take part in the diagnostic process.
Paed then had a chat with DS and performed a physical examination.

If you have an iPad or similar with headphones it would be a good idea to take it with you to keep DS busy while you speak to the Paed. If not, maybe another family member could wait outside with DS while you explain things to Paed, it would give you the opportunity to speak more freely without the worry of DS overhearing.
Another advice is to take notes with you of all your worries and maybe give them a copy.
I hope this helps.

[GeorgiaT2468]

Thank you. He has no issues with speech and language, he displays challenging behaviour, inability to concentrate or sit still, sleeps quite poorly, impulsive, struggles to listen and co-operate, bad temper, sound sensitive etc.. What's the physical examination for? Xx

[Tambaboy]

Hi, I can't remember much about the examination but I recall her saying DS had poor muscle tone after she checked his arms and legs. She looked for distinctive facial features that could pinpoint to a genetic condition. Paed also asked him to get undressed and dressed as quickly as he could. He was quite slow and after a few other concerns about his motor skills she referred him to OT.

SALTs look at many things regarding language, a child can be very articulate but struggle with higher level language skills like the understanding and use of figurative expressions, ability to draw conclusions and inferences etc that could pinpoint to ASD.

I'm not so familiar with the process of diagnosing ADHD I'm afraid. DS was diagnosed with ASD 3 years ago and he is currently being assessed for inattentive ADHD but Paed has known him for 4 years now so the process might be slightly different.

[Tambaboy]

I forgot to say that your DS' school will be asked for some input. Have they raised any concerns?

[GeorgiaT2468]

Ah ok I see.. Thanks it gives me more knowledge on the appointment to come.. Much appreciated xxxx