Anxiety Disorders and Stress Q 44
The therapeutic approach in the care of an autistic child includes the following except:
A. Engage in diversionary activities when acting -out.
B. Provide an atmosphere of acceptance.
C. Provide safety measures.
D. Rearrange the environment to activate the child.
Correct Answer: D. Rearrange the environment to activate the child
The child with the autistic disorder does not want change. Maintaining a consistent environment is therapeutic. Many individuals with ASD show a need for a structured, sometimes regimented, daily schedule. The need for controlled sensory stimulation, such as decreasing noise, lights, and tactile input, is common. Families must consider each family member’s personality and activities while adapting to the needs of the family member with ASD.
Option A: Angry outbursts can be re-channeled through safe activities. Education of nurses on how to best care for patients with ASD provides an avenue for ongoing advocacy to the entire healthcare team. Each person with ASD is unique and complex, and each must adapt to the world based on his or her strengths, weaknesses, and limitations. Remember that these individuals aren’t autistic, but rather they have ASD.
Option B: Acceptance enhances a trusting relationship. Nurses can team with the family for rehearsal of planned actions with expected behaviors before appointments or procedures, and frequent reminders during post-intervention care can reduce fear and outbursts while gaining patient cooperation. Tailoring care based on sensory sensitivity and the patient’s ability to communicate is the primary focus. Interventions, such as dimming the lights, using a weighted blanket or vest, and allowing repetitive movement that doesn’t hinder care, can soothe the person with ASD.
Option C: Ensure safety from self-destructive behaviors like headbanging and hair-pulling. Clinical practice guidelines encourage direct, clear statements beginning with the patient’s name to improve information processing. Instead of completing the entire head-to-toe assessment, nurses can anticipate the need to assess one or two body systems at a time to evaluate sensory tolerance. It’s recommended for nurses and caregivers to deliver clear directions to gain inclusion and participation in the actions that are needed when giving care.