Author Question: A child has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The distraught mother cries out, I'm such ... (Read 96 times)

maychende · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

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

A. Researchers really don't know what causes autistic disorder, but the relationship between autistic disorder and fetal alcohol syndrome is being explored.
B. Poor parenting doesn't cause autism. Research has shown that abnormalities in brain structure and/or function are to blame. This is beyond your control.
C. Research has shown that the mother appears to play a greater role in the development of this disorder than the father.
D. Lack of early infant bonding with the mother has shown to be a cause of autistic 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 intellectual disability?

A. Meeting all of the client's self-care needs to avoid injury
B. Providing simple directions and praising client's independent self-care efforts
C. Avoiding interference with the client's self-care efforts in order to promote autonomy
D. Encouraging family to meet the client's self-care needs to promote bonding

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

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
The most appropriate reply by the nurse is to explain to the parent that autism spectrum disorder is believed to be caused by abnormalities in brain structure and/or function, not poor parenting. Autism spectrum disorder occurs in approximately 6 per 1,000 children and is about four times more likely to occur in boys.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Providing simple directions and praise is an appropriate intervention for a teenager diagnosed with moderate intellectual disability. Individuals with moderate intellectual disability can perform some activities independently and may be capable of academic skill to a second-grade level.