Communicating with children on the autism spectrum

Abstract

It is estimated that about 1-1.2% of the population are affected by Autism spectrum disorder and boys are more likely to be diagnosed compared to girls. Autism spectrum disorders represent a broad group of developmental disorders that begin early in childhood that manifests as an abnormality in communication and interaction, and limited, repetitive and inflexible patterns of behaviour, and limited interests. The causes of Autism are biological, but the specific mechanisms are still unknown as there is no single factor that fully explains the development of the disorder. Nurses have a responsibility to give high quality care to children with the Autism spectrum disorder and efficient communication strategies are essential in the delivery of quality care.

This thesis concentrated on creating awareness about Autism spectrum disorder and how nurses can effectively communicate children on the autism spectrum, thereby promoting health and helping these children feel more comfortable during visits to the hospital environment.

This thesis work was executed as a practice-based thesis and the product is an educational video produced for the immigrant nursing students at LAB University of Applied Sciences. The video contains basic information about autism spectrum disorders, the important roles played by nurses in quality care delivery, communication barriers and strategies that could aid effective communication.

This practice-based thesis followed the linear model research framework. Thematic qualitative analysis was used to analyse the feedback generated after the exhibition of the video to the immigrant nursing students at LAB University of Applied Sciences. The topic has shown to be useful to nursing students and the lecturers teaching them. The video will be used for educational purposes for students.