Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia
Corso di laurea in infermieristica - Sede di Modena
| Thesis Title | Nursing care to the child with Autism Spectrum Disorder |
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| Name | Perillo Stefania |
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| Supervisor(s) | Cavani Francesco |
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| Academic Year | 2021/22 |
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| Thesis type | Non research thesis |
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Abstract
In this thesis, the nursing care of the child with autism spectrum disorder was investigated through a literature review. The choice of this investigation was due to the need for further knowledge regarding autism spectrum disorders and the nursing strategies to be implemented when caring for children. Symptoms differ from person to person and those affected may present problems in social interactions and both verbal and non-verbal communication. Difficulties in communication, insight and behaviour are amplified in the hospital, where the caregiver is not always trained for proper management and care. The nurse's task must be to welcome the child in a professional manner, making him or her adapt to the environment, which can cause stress both because it constitutes a new environment for the child and because of problems related to sensoriality and perception of external stressors. The following databases PubMed, Cinahl and Cochrane Library were used for the literature research, using the following keywords: Autism Spectum Disorders, children, nursing and caring. The essay consists of three chapters: in the first, the definition of Autism Spectrum Disorders is introduced and the epidemiology, aetiology and diagnostic criteria are discussed in detail; the second chapter deals with comorbidities and their pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments; the third chapter deals with the role of the nurse in the early diagnosis of these disorders, hospitalisation issues and coping strategies are analysed. The studies showed that many of the nurses involved experienced difficulties from a relational point of view, especially in communication and direct interaction with the child. Therefore, appropriate training and information for nurses can be a starting point for proper care.
