Autism

[Snickerdoodles]

Hi everyone-

I am doing a presentation on Autism. I have most of it done, but I need nursing interventions for adults with Autism. Any suggestions?

[jpeters84]

I would target activities that increase social interactions. Is there an adult autism group that the person can attend or a way as you the nurse could foster an environment where they could safely participate in more social activites? How about consultationing with a psychologist/healthy living/autism consultant? How about patient education? There are now so many great books, videos, and movies out about autism you could recommend. What about diet. Diet is huge. I would consult with a nutritionist that specializes in autism and also integrate patient education with the need to have at minimum a gluten-free diet...Hope this helps...

[LovingNurse, BSN, RN]

The first three that come to mind are Consults! : Speech Path, P.T. & O.T. :bowingpur They rock when it comes to things like this!

Private room. Allow/ Encourage family to stay, if they can. Not always possible, but a familiar face who knows the patient could be very valuable.

Continuity of care with staffing, and staff with a gift of patience. (Try to have the same nurse, care partners etc., for as long a stretch as possible instead of a new and unfamiliar face each time.)

Dietary consult if necessary... The family will know what the patient's food preferences are - does s/he need finger foods, etc.

-If patient has any favorite movies, see to it that VCR or DVD player is in room for the patient to watch them. The familiarity these provide can be very comforting. Find out if there is a reward system in place at home and whether it's something you can use in-house as well. Is patient rewarded with computer time, etc.?

Don't know if any of these are what you're looking for - may depend on how high functioning they are on the spectrum, since it can vary quite a bit.

:redbeathe:nurse::redbeathe

[~Stacy]

Hi, if you need any more help feel free to ask. My son is autistic and I use many behavior modification techniques. Routine is key! Charts work great in setting goals and giving rewards. Make a chart for them to see their progress. Start small - pick three things you would like to see change in. Provide rewards frequently at first and then increase time in frequency. Once goal is achieved pick a new behavior you want changed.

Give frequent prompts. I wish I had time to write more but I have to get to work.