Author Question: A child has been diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder. The distraught mother cries out, I'm ... (Read 55 times)

mmm · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

A child has been diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder. The distraught mother cries out, I'm such a terrible mother. What did I do to cause this? Which nursing response is most appropriate?

1. Researchers really don't know what causes autistic spectrum disorder, but the relationship between autistic disorder and fetal alcohol syndrome is being explored.
2. Poor parenting doesn't cause autistic spectrum disorder. Research has shown that abnormalities in brain structure or function are to blame. This is beyond your control.
3. Research has shown that the mother appears to play a greater role in the development of autistic spectrum disorder than the father.
4. Lack of early infant bonding with the mother has shown to be a cause of autistic spectrum disorder. Did you breastfeed or bottle-feed?

Question 2

Which nursing intervention related to self-care would be most appropriate for a teenager diagnosed with moderate IDD?

1. Meeting all of the client's self-care needs to avoid injury to the client
2. Providing simple directions and praising client's independent self-care efforts
3. Avoid interfering with the client's self-care efforts in order to promote autonomy
4. Encouraging family to meet the client's self-care needs to promote bonding

perkiness · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

2
Rationale: The most appropriate response by the nurse is to explain to the parent that autistic spectrum disorder is believed to be caused by abnormalities in brain structure or function, not poor parenting. Autism occurs in approximately 11.3 per 1,000 children and is about 4.5 times more likely to occur in boys than girls.

Answer to Question 2

2
Rationale: Providing simple directions and praise is an appropriate intervention for a teenager diagnosed with moderate IDD. Individuals with moderate mental retardation can perform some activities independently and may be capable of academic skill to a second-grade level.