Autism and the School Nurse

Abstract

Until recently, treatment for children with autism involved housing them in hospitals for the developmentally disabled. Today, more states are returning children with autism to their home communities, and more parents are choosing or are being required to keep their children with autism in their homes. Laws were developed to ensure that children with autism receive some form of education, often through the local school system. School nurses, who may not have experience working with children with autism, may feel uncertain about how to provide support for the child with autism. Approximately 300,000 persons in the United States have autism or display autistic behaviors. About one-third are under age 21. People with autism come from all socioeconomic classes. Males are four times more likely to be affected by autism than females. People with autism can be expected to live a normal lifespan.

School Nurses' Knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorders

“…The issues and core deficits of autism can lead to communication problems, feeding disorders, and other maladaptive behaviors, such as severe tantrums, aggression, disruptions, and self-injury (Souders et al, 2002). Cade and Tidwell (2001) described other symptoms including attention deficits, mental retardation, and seizures. Table 1 refers to signs and symptoms of ASD.…”

The School Nurse's Role in Treatment of the Student With Autism Spectrum Disorders

“…They also are responsible for developing the Individual Health Plan (IHP) for each student with medical needs in the school. Because of these important roles, it is imperative they become aware of the many facets of ASD and the need for continuity of care within the school setting (Cade & Tidwell, 2001; Percy, 2006; Wallis & Smith, 2008). School nurses not only need up‐to‐date information about ASD but also information about how to intervene with the maximum efficacy in a limited amount of time.…”

Utilization of School Nurses During the Evaluation and Identification of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders

“…Children with autism may experience additional mental health issues, including emotional disturbances and ADHD, and school nurses could assist in the treatment of these disorders. For example, these disorders often result in sleep deprivation and, therefore, medical management should address sleep disturbances (Cade & Tidwell, ). Furthermore, children with ASD often experience abdominal pain, cramping, constipation, and diarrhea (Kuddo & Nelson, ).…”