Understanding Autism: Assessment, Interventions, and Nursing Care

1. Autism  Autism is a neurological disorder that affects an individual’s ability to interact with others, think and even express emotions. Understanding providing effective treatments can be challenging, but with the right plan and strategies in place, individuals with autism can lead happy and successful lives. autism and

2.  Assessment  1. Health History: It is important to know about the history and any developmental delays or physical illnesses. Any test results or evaluations should be reviewed to get an understanding of the person’s individual characteristics. individual’s medical

3.  2. Physical Examination:The physical examination provides information about the person’s growth and development and can reveal physical associated with examination may also provide clues to other disorders such as cerebral palsy.  . important abnormalities autism. An

4.  3. Psychological Testing: Tests used to assess autism involve both cognitive and adaptive functioning tests. Adaptive tests measure an individual’s ability to use common knowledge and skills, while cognitive tests comprehension, problem communication. measure language solving and

5. • Idiopathic: – Multiple theories: 1) Genetics 2) Heredity 3) Inflammation of CNS 4) Exposure • Environmental:maternal rubella or cytomegalovirus • Chemical: thalidomide pregnancy or valproate during NOT CAUSED BY BAD PARENTING! •

6. • Early Diagnoses promote positive outcome • Symptoms noticed typically when child is 24-48 months • No medical test • Observed behavior • Educational testing • Psychological testing • Modified Checklist ofAutism inToddlers (MCHAT) – Other screening tools available for older children • *from birth to 36months every child should be screened for developmental milestones

7. signs and symptoms of autism spectrum disorder?  Impairment in social interaction ◦ Difficulty forming interpersonal relationships ◦ Aversion to affection and physical contact ◦ Inability to process feelings of others

8.  Impairment in communication ◦ Absent language or immature structure or utterances ◦ Absent or inappropriate communication ◦ Lack of response or overreaction to stimuli ◦ Restricted or repetitive play nonverbal

9.  Restricted activities and interests ◦ Attachment to certain objects ◦ Resistance/agitation environment ◦ Stereotyped body verbalization ◦ Self-injurious behaviors to changes in the movements and

10. Nursing Diagnosis  1. Social Isolation: Social isolation is a common symptom of autism. People often have difficulty engaging with others, setting and maintaining relationships and participating in group activities.  2. Deficient Knowledge:Autistic individuals often lack knowledge about common situations, such as how to shop or go out to eat. They need to receive clear instructions and guidance on how to interact with others.  3. Communication autism frequently have difficulty expressing thoughts and feelings. They may not understand nonverbal cues, body language, and facial expressions in others. Difficulties: People with

11.  Goals  1. Improved social interactions: The goal is for individuals to start interacting more with other people, taking part in conversations and developing meaningful relationships.  2. Enhanced knowledge: Autistic individuals need to learn how to safely interact with others, follow directions and handle responsibilities such as money management.  augmentative communication or another method.

12. Interventions  1. Social Skills Training: Social skills training encourages individuals to interact, communicate and appropriate behaviors in different settings.  2. Educational educational programs individuals with autism can help enhance academic skills, practical skills and communication strategies. participate in Programs: Specific designed for

13.  3. technology and devices can provide people with autism with improved communication, motor increased independence. Assistive Technology:Assistive skills, and

14. Evaluation  To evaluate the effectiveness of a nursing care plan, caregivers must observe and assess the individual’s progress at regular intervals. Caregivers should also monitor the individual’s behavior, risk of harm and safety needs, as well as overall mental health and physical health.

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