The mother of a child with autism spectrum disorder tells the ...

[james9437]

The mother of a child with autism spectrum disorder tells the nurse that her child has few playmates. She states, He has real trouble interacting with other children and when there is a change in his routine, he throws a tantrum.
 
  Based on this information, the nurse identifies which nursing diagnosis as the priority?
 
  A) Self-Care Deficits related to repeated tantrums
  B) Risk for Injury related to autism spectrum disorder
  C) Compromised Family Coping related to having a child with autism spectrum disorder
  D) Social Isolation related to poor social skills

Question 2

A child with autism spectrum disorder engages in a repetitive rocking behavior that does not pose a threat to the child's safety. When educating the child's family on managing this behavior, which of the following would be appropriate for the nurse to sug
 
  A) Ignore it
  B) Redirect the child
  C) Use positive reinforcement
  D) Pad the area around the child

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Answer to Question 1

Ans: D
Based on the mother's comments, the priority nursing diagnosis is Social Isolation related to poor social skills of the child. This nursing diagnosis is substantiated by the mother's statement that the child has few playmates and has difficulty interacting with other children. There is no information provided to suggest a self-care deficit or risk for injury. Statements about the family's issues with the child and his disorder would support a nursing diagnosis of Compromised Family Coping.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: A
Managing the repetitive behaviors of these children depends on the specific behavior and its effects on others or the environment. If the behavior has no negative effects, such as rocking, ignoring it may be the best approach. If the behavior is unacceptable, such as head banging, redirecting the child and using positive reinforcement are recommended. In some cases, especially in children with severe delays, these strategies may not work, and environmental alterations and perhaps protective headgear are needed.