Autism

Autism is a severe mental disorder begins in infancy or toddler-hood. It is characterized by impairment of reciprocal social interaction and in verbal and non-verbal communication. The cause of autism is unknown and the prognosis is poor, however, the diagnosis can be established through the symptoms and specialized autism assessment tools

Signs and Symptoms of Autism:

• Abnormal responses of body sensations
• Disturbance in the rate ad appearance of physical, social, and language skills
• Abnormal ways in relating to persons, objects, and events
• Self-absorbed and unable to relate to others
• The child may play happily alone for hours but have temper tantrums if interrupted
• Repetition of previously heard speech meaninglessly and reversal of the pronouns "I" and "you"
• Unusual attachment to a significant object and display frequent rocking, spinning, twirling, or other bizarre behaviors

Nursing Interventions:

1. Identify the child routines, habits, and preferences, and maintain consistency as much as possible
2. Observe the specific ways in which the child communicates
3. Encourage communication through the use of picture boards
4. Provide safety environment and safety precautions
5. Observe for stress and anxiety
6. Avoid placing demands on child
7. Initiate referrals to special programs as required
8. Provide support for child's parents