“People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) demonstrate characteristics of impaired social interaction and communication abilities. These clients are unable to initiate conversations and fail to understand or observe nonverbal behaviors. Another identifier for someone with ASD is their use of repetitive and restrictive behaviors. A client with ASD will repeat the question being asked rather than answer it. The client will parrot or repeat one word or phrase that is spoken to them, also known as echolalia. Also, the client will be intrigued with repetitive, rhythmic songs or verses” (Ackley & Ladwig, 2011).
“Most clients with ASD have a normal appearance and this disorder does not favor one culture over another. Although results have shown that …show more content…
However these medications are all provided to the client in hopes of them being able to function appropriately in society. Although certain medications are a helpful method for controlling attributes of ASD, it is also very helpful for the parents of the client to be educated on how to appropriately react and direct the client. “This education would include behavior management to reward appropriate behaviors, foster positive or adaptive coping skills, and overall would facilitate effective communication. Lastly, some caregivers have chosen complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) as an approach to help the ASD client function appropriately. One method of CAM includes dietary therapy with vitamin A, C, B6, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids. This approach is based off belief that detoxification by limiting certain dietary intake or using Epson salt baths can be helpful in decreasing symptoms of ASD. Although this approach does not have any research or evidence to confirm its accuracy, it is still an approach that is widely used and preferred by many parents and caregivers when dealing with ASD clients” (Ackley & Ladwig, …show more content…
Nursing staff could validate verbal and nonverbal expressions especially when dealing with pain in a client with ASD. “The faces nonverbal scale or the nonverbal pain scale (NVPS) could be used when the nurse feels appropriate. The nonverbal pain scale is helpful in sedated patients or patients who are unable to communicate to confirm their pain level. This would be appropriate in patients with ASD at times when the client will repeat what is being asked (echolalia), or when the client does not know how to effectively express or verbalize emotions such as pain” (Callahan, 2015). The nurse could also explain all procedures that are being performed regarding the patient with ASD. Although the patient with ASD may not communicate assurance back to the nurse, it is still important to let the patient know about all aspects regarding their care and surroundings. Also, “it is likely that a patient with ASD would become violent or combative to a nurse which is another reason why an explanation of all procedures could also help provide comfort and assurance to the patient in hopes of preventing a violent episode” (Callahan,
“Most clients with ASD have a normal appearance and this disorder does not favor one culture over another. Although results have shown that …show more content…
However these medications are all provided to the client in hopes of them being able to function appropriately in society. Although certain medications are a helpful method for controlling attributes of ASD, it is also very helpful for the parents of the client to be educated on how to appropriately react and direct the client. “This education would include behavior management to reward appropriate behaviors, foster positive or adaptive coping skills, and overall would facilitate effective communication. Lastly, some caregivers have chosen complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) as an approach to help the ASD client function appropriately. One method of CAM includes dietary therapy with vitamin A, C, B6, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids. This approach is based off belief that detoxification by limiting certain dietary intake or using Epson salt baths can be helpful in decreasing symptoms of ASD. Although this approach does not have any research or evidence to confirm its accuracy, it is still an approach that is widely used and preferred by many parents and caregivers when dealing with ASD clients” (Ackley & Ladwig, …show more content…
Nursing staff could validate verbal and nonverbal expressions especially when dealing with pain in a client with ASD. “The faces nonverbal scale or the nonverbal pain scale (NVPS) could be used when the nurse feels appropriate. The nonverbal pain scale is helpful in sedated patients or patients who are unable to communicate to confirm their pain level. This would be appropriate in patients with ASD at times when the client will repeat what is being asked (echolalia), or when the client does not know how to effectively express or verbalize emotions such as pain” (Callahan, 2015). The nurse could also explain all procedures that are being performed regarding the patient with ASD. Although the patient with ASD may not communicate assurance back to the nurse, it is still important to let the patient know about all aspects regarding their care and surroundings. Also, “it is likely that a patient with ASD would become violent or combative to a nurse which is another reason why an explanation of all procedures could also help provide comfort and assurance to the patient in hopes of preventing a violent episode” (Callahan,