Autism

Question 1

What is autism characterized by?

Answer 1

-impaired social, communicative, and behavioral development

Question 2

When is autism usually first noted?

Answer 2

within the first year of life or between 12-36 months when child regresses

Question 3

Nursing assessment for autism (3)

Answer 3

Note delay or regression of developmental skills (particularly speech and language)

Failure to point at objects and to gaze at an object by 18 months

Infant may resist cuddling, lack eye contact, be indifferent to touch or affection and have little change in facial expressions

Question 4

Home setting management of autism

Answer 4

Reduce environmental stimuli

Communicate via age-appropriate touch & verbalization

Keep toys or other items out of reach if child uses them for harmful self-stimuli

Ritualistic ADLs –> Rigid and unchanging routines (ASD kids often act out with a change in routine- especially in the hospital)

Encourage therapists & support groups

Question 5

Acute care setting management of autism

Answer 5

Keep at least 1 constant caregiver. Encourage parents to stay with child, keep room quiet & limit number of staff

Anxiety/aggression when touched by strangers

Constant monitoring by nurse or parents

Allow to maintain rituals of ADLs

Encourage therapists & support groups