This hospital is creating an autism-friendly emergency room

An Orlando children's hospital is piloting a new program to reduce stress for children with autism when they visit the emergency room.

Nemours Children's Hospital officials say emergency rooms tend to be overstimulating and can exacerbate symptoms for children with autism.

The program will provide private, quieter waiting areas for families; headphones; eliminate unnecessary loud equipment; and speed up waiting times for medication and tests.

Three research studies are underway to evaluate the pilot. Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, a sister hospital in Wilmington, Delaware, is planning a similar program.