Monica Garrett-Hughes, RN BSN, lead this month’s lunch & learn discussing Autism Spectrum Disorder(ASD) through the perspective as a pediatric nurse supporting autistic children. She has over 30 years experience in education and nursing that have been a valuable resource to meeting the needs of the pediatric autistic community.
Brief History and Terminology
Monica began by challenging attendees views of ASD and labeling. Nurses, therapists and parents learned how labels are both important but can never fit every individual. Instead, the label triggers a reaction for caregivers to adjust how they care, interact and most importantly communicate with pediatrics with ASD.“Having the label of Autism Spectrum Disorder gives us a starting point to understanding how to communicate with that individual.”
Monica continued to share a brief history of Autism including the first case ever diagnosed, Donald Triplett in 1943. Since then has evolved from being identified as a part of schizophrenia to now the umbrella term to describe a broad range of complex neurodevelopment disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder(ASD). ASD encompasses autism, pervasive developmental delay, Asperger Syndrome and high functioning autism.
Monica ended her discussion with actionable ways and tips for attendees to improve communication and behaviors.
Tips from a Caregiver’s Perspective
Verbal Communication
- Speak calmly and clearly without emotion.
- Use short sentences and provide 2 choices that accomplish the same goal.
- Avoid innuendos or vague language(Pedi-ASD are typically literal thinkers)
- Use visual cues to improve understanding
Behavior Management
- Begins with managing your responses.
- Identify triggers i.e. crowded spaces or changes in schedule
- Behavior may reflect fear, hunger or frustration. Explore them
- Be patient
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Learn more about Monica Garrett-Hughes, RN BSN here.