In the United States, one out of every 68 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Although the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder can be detected by 24 months of age, the average age of diagnosis is 4 to 5 years. A lack of a diagnostic laboratory test for autism spectrum disorder and inadequate provider training accounts for the difficulty in establishing a diagnosis for the disorder. While there is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, early identification, diagnosis, and evidence-based interventions can improve a child's development and enhance their quality of life. The goal of this project was to improve the screening for autism spectrum disorder by nurse practitioners in a community health clinic. The project was enacted using the Iowa Model Quality Improvement Framework and concepts and theories adapted from Betty Neuman's system Model. It examined the routine screening practices and use of validated tools for autism spectrum disorder by nurse practitioners in a community health clinic. The project identified culture and language as the biggest barriers to screening for autism spectrum disorder among Somali patients. It developed a video screening resource guide that nurse practitioners can use to screen for autism spectrum disorder during 18 and 24 months well child visits. The resource guide was instrumental in increasing knowledge, transforming nursing practice, and improving the outcomes of Somali children with autism spectrum disorder.

"Purpose: To improve early identification and intervention for infants and children with developmental delays and Autism Spectrum Disorder in primary care. Data Sources: A web-based automated screening program for developmental delays and ASD was instituted in a nurse practitioner owned primary care practice using two standardized screening instruments; the Ages and Stages Parent Questionnaire-3 (ASQ-3) and Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT). Conclusions: Developmental and ASD screening programs can be successfully implemented in primary care. Utilizing a web-based platform with automated scoring provides easy access to efficient, accurate, and cost-effective developmental and autism screening. Implications for practice: Developmental and Autism Screening at well-child visits promotes improved outcomes when instituted before age three. Advanced Nurse Practitioners working in primary care should utilize practice guidelines for developmental screening and be well versed in the use of standardized screening instruments available for use in the medical home. This web-based model can be utilized in primary care offices to increase the number of infants and children screened for developmental delays and autism spectrum disorders. Collaboration with public health, Title V State Programs, and rural health programs should be considered as vehicles for improving early detection of developmental delays and ASD utilizing web-based screening technologies. Keywords: Ages and Stages Parent Questionnaire, autism screening instruments, developmental delay, developmental screening instruments, pediatric developmental screening, Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, and parent report developmental questionnaires." -- Abstract.

ìThis book helps move healthcare forward by recognizing the range of issues across the lifespan that people with ASD may face. . . [and] brings together a wealth of expertise with information and strategies across the lifespan.î From the Foreword by Catherine Rice, PhD National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities Center for Disease Control and Prevention Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a growing health problem and nearly all nurses are likely to care for individuals with ASD. Designed as a textbook and a reference, this volume prepares nurses to recognize the unique challenges of providing evidence-based health care that meets the special needs of ASD patients across the lifespan and in multiple practice settings. Chapters include setting-specific case studies followed by consistently formatted information about key clinical issues, clinical assessment, and best practice nursing plans of care. The book is organized on a social model of disability with a focus on the environmental, cultural, and economic barriers encountered by people with ASD. It highlights the significant role played by nurses in the treatment of ASD patients and helps nurses integrate the specialized information about ASD into their clinical practice. Each section of the book reflects a different life stage and is organized to include learning objectives and developmental needs at the beginning of a section, with key points, a guide to clinical problem solving, and thought-provoking review questions at the end. Key Features: Provides evidence-based information for nurses about the special treatment needs of individuals with ASD Explains how functional deficits of people with ASD complicate health care delivery and how nurses can use this knowledge to provide quality care Addresses clinical issues across the lifespan and in multiple settings through case studies that illustrate best practice nursing care for a variety of problems Ideal for continuing education programs, post-masterís certificate programs, and school nurse certification programs

People with autism spectrum disorder may have unique development challenges, but they face a range of health issues like all people, and many of these may be compounded by an ASD. This book provides the tools and information so the health care professional can think differently about caring for this patient and see through his or her eyes. The presentations of 28 contributors share the importance of early, continuous, coordinated, and individualized care that is integrated into the existing health care system. Examples of models and policies that have improved the access, experience, and outcomes for patients with ASD are shared. In addition, the importance of continuous quality improvement through data collection and monitoring of outcomes is emphasized. This information is essential for addressing the capacity crisis now in providing routine, specialized, and emergency care for individuals with ASD. Some of the major topics discussed include: the epidemiology of autism spectrum disorder; facilitating the role of parents in management and advocacy; the impact of the sensory environment on care; medications for the treatment of psychiatric comorbidities; frameworks to guide practice and research with patients; building a home for acute care needs; assisting parents in adapting and making decisions regarding treatment options; integrating genetic testing into health care; educating nurses with faculty and curricular issues; emergency medicine and improving service; physical therapy to promote health, function, and community participation; using big data to direct quality improvement; and monitoring patient outcomes in research and policy outcomes. This significant volume brings together a wealth of expertise with information and strategies across the lifespan for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Autism Spectrum Disorder highlights current key topics for this complex and challenging developmental neurobiological disorder. In a very practical and concise manner, the reader will find a state-of-the-science review combining key factual knowledge with practical clinical considerations. Written in a user-friendly fashion, this text provides key fact boxes, summary questions, and references for further readings to enhance understanding. This invaluable book incorporates practical clinical knowledge within a didactic framework to provide a comprehensive overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) across the lifespan.

This book addresses the importance and relevance of interprofessional care coordination for children and youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It covers the role of interprofessional collaborations across various settings for multiple service provision purposes. The volume examines interprofessional collaboration among professionals across such broad issues as screening, evaluation, intervention, and overall care management of ASD. In addition, the book explores more narrowly focused issues, such as providing transition services during early childhood and young adulthood, culturally responsive practice and advocacy issues for individuals with ASD from diverse backgrounds, and providing care for individuals with ASD and co-occurring trauma. Finally, the book concludes with the editors’ recommendations for future directions in interprofessional care for pediatric ASD. Topics featured in this book include: Autism screening tools and interdisciplinary coordination of the processes. Dell Children’s (S)TAAR Model of Early Autism Assessment. The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM). Transition from early schooling for youth with ASD. Postsecondary and vocational opportunities for youth with autism. Transitioning from pediatric to adult medical systems. International perspectives in coordinated care for individuals with ASD. Psychopharmacology of ASD. Interprofessional Care Coordination for Pediatric Autism Spectrum Disorder is an essential resource for researchers, clinicians and professionals, and graduate students in clinical child and school psychology, social work, behavioral therapy and related disciplines, including clinical medicine, clinical nursing, counseling, speech and language pathology, and special education.