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The principles of neurodiversity in nursing practice

Last quality assured: 31/07/2025
Infographic of two female nurses and a male nurse smiling

This resource supports nurses in providing inclusive care for neurodivergent patients across clinical settings. It covers common conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia and Tourette’s, offering practical strategies to improve communication, adapt environments and make reasonable adjustments. Emphasising person-centred care, the guide highlights the importance of recognising individual strengths and sensory needs, while promoting awareness, equity and accessibility in health care.

Who is this resource for?

This resource is aimed at nurses across all settings and levels of practice, including students of health, social work and care professions.

What will this resource give me?

  • a clear understanding of neurodiversity and common neurodivergent conditions
  • practical strategies to support neurodivergent patients in clinical settings
  • guidance on making reasonable adjustments in line with the Equality Act 2010
  • tools to improve communication, including the 'Step It Up' approach
  • advice on creating sensory-friendly and cognitively inclusive environments
  • insights into the strengths and challenges associated with each condition
  • tips for supporting neurodivergent individuals with complex health needs, such as diabetes
  • awareness of intersectionality and how it may affect patient experience
  • support for multidisciplinary team planning and inclusive service development
  • access to recommended resources, screening tools and organisations for further support.

Resource last reviewed

31 Jul 2025

The RCN delivers quality-assured and up-to-date resources for the nursing workforce. Reviewed annually in line with the RCN Quality Assurance policy, all RCN Learn resources meet the RCN’s Nine Quality Standards.

Who is this resource for?

This resource is aimed at nurses and nursing support workers across all settings and levels of practice, including students of health, social work and care professions.

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Downloaded content date

PDF created on: 15 Dec 2025.
Downloaded from: https://uatlearnamber.rcn.org.uk/Search/The-principles-of-neurodiversity-in-nursing-practice.
Please check: https://rcnlearn.rcn.org.uk for a more up-to-date version of this content.

Last reviewed: 31/07/2025

Last quality assured: 31/07/2025