Designed as a textbook and reference for nurses and nursing students, this unique volume provides a wealth of evidence-based information about the special treatment needs of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The book considers ASD patients across the lifespan and in multiple practice settings. Case studies illustrate scenarios with ASD patients from early childhood through end-of-life. The book highlights the significant role played by nurses in the care of ASD patients and will help 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. Chapters are introduced by a case study followed by consistently formatted information about key clinical issues, clinical assessment, and a best-practice nursing plan of care. 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 Clearly and consistently organized for ease of use Serves as a required text for continuing education programs, post-masters certificate programs, and school nurse certification programs Serves as a major reference for advanced practice programs that prepare pediatric and mental health nurse practitioners or clinical nurse specialists Serves as a reference text for hospital and clinic libraries.
