Autism/ADHD Susan Stocks PPT

Define autism

it is a single category (mild to severe)

Withdrawal of child into self with abnormal/impaired communication and restricted interests and activities

Is their an identifiable cause of autism?

no, there is no readily identifiable cause.

- there is a neurological alteration in brain structure

- physiological congenital, and perinatal difficulties/abnormalities

- genetic predisposition

Is autism more common in boys or girls?

more frequent in males

What is the prevalence of autism?

1 in 88 children

When does the onset of autism occur?

early childhood with symptoms persisting into adulthood

What are the S/S of autism?

◦Range of neurological/developmental conditions-challenges with social skills, physical contact, repetitive behaviors, speech/nonverbal skills affected

◦Usually identified by young childhood

◦Lack of expression of mood, poor eye contact, difficulty expressing needs

◦Difficulty engaging in play/interactive activities with others (interpersonal skills)

◦Attachment to objects that move/spin common;

repetitive body movements

◦Upset by routine changes

◦Outbursts/tantrums/self-injurious behavior

Name four Nursing Diagnosis for autism

◦Risk self-mutilation

◦Impaired social interactions

◦Impaired verbal

communication

◦Disturbed personal identity

What are treatment options for autism?

◦Assess for sensory stimulation issues

◦Pharmacological as indicated (motor restlessness/aggressiveness/self-injury/obsessive behaviors)

◦Speech/language therapy

◦Break tasks down into small steps with positive feedback given

◦CBT

◦Safe environment (locks, gates, child proof cabinets,etc)

◦Family education

◦Resource outreach

What are the S/S of ADHD

◦Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder-psychomotor overactivity, inattentiveness, impulsiveness and distractibility

difficult peer relationships

Who can diagnosis ADHD

◦Qualified specialist must conduct evaluation-can mimic Bipolar

◦Generally identified as child begins school, interfering with behavior, performance

Is ADHD more common in males or females?

More common in males

Can ADHD persist into adulthood?

yes

What is the eitiology related to ADHD

same as autism but also:

birth complications, drug exposure

environmental concerns - lead

diet - excess sugar, food dyes, allergies and sensitivities

What are the goals of treatment for ADHD

◦Maintain Safety

◦ Manage symptoms

◦Reduce behaviors- hyperactivity/impulsiveness

◦Increase child's attention span

◦Enhance quality of life by optimum independent functioning

◦Family inclusive therapies

How is ADHD treated?

◦Pharmacological -decrease hyperactivity, impulsivity (CNS stimulants-act on dopamine receptors depressing motor activity), antidepressants, antihypertensives

◦Break tasks down into small steps with positive feedback given

What are the goals of ADHD treatment?

◦Improve attention

◦Safe environment

◦Family education

◦Resource outreach

ADHD Medications

◦Stimulants

◦Non stimulants

◦Antidepressants

What are some consideration for drug treatment of ADHD?

◦Administer stimulants during daytime hours/after meals

◦Drug holiday with medical approval (CNS stimulants)

◦Monitor nutritional intake

◦Monitor vital signs at intervals

◦Implement behavioral strategies (limit setting, reward and consequence)

◦Break tasks down into small steps

◦Include family in care process

Name 4 nursing diagnosis for ADHD

1. risk for injury

2. impaired role performance

3. impaired social interaction

4. compromised family coping