A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a child who has autism spectrum disorder. Which of the following interventions should the nurse recommend for the plan of care?
A.
Assure that child has a large variety of caregivers.
B.
Establish a reward system for positive behavior.
C.
Provide a flexible schedule to adjust to the child’s interests.
D.
Allow for imaginative play with peers without supervision.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is B. Establish a reward system for positive behavior.
Explanation
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. Children with ASD often benefit from structured and predictable environments, clear expectations, and reinforcement of positive behaviors. Here’s why B is the most appropriate intervention:
- Behavioral Reinforcement: Children with ASD often respond well to structured reinforcement systems. A reward system helps to reinforce desired behaviors by providing immediate and tangible rewards for positive actions. This approach is grounded in applied behavior analysis (ABA), a widely used therapy for children with ASD that focuses on improving specific behaviors through reinforcement.
- Predictability and Structure: A reward system offers a predictable structure that can help reduce anxiety and frustration for children with ASD. Knowing that positive behavior will be rewarded provides motivation and encourages the child to repeat these behaviors. This structured approach aligns with their need for predictability and routine.
- Skill Development: Reinforcing positive behavior not only helps in managing current behaviors but also aids in the development of new skills. For example, rewarding a child for using appropriate social interactions or following instructions can promote better communication skills and adaptability.
Now, let’s briefly review why the other options are less suitable:
- A. Assure that child has a large variety of caregivers: Consistency is crucial for children with ASD. A large number of caregivers can create confusion and anxiety due to the lack of familiarity and consistency. A stable, consistent caregiving environment is generally more beneficial.
- C. Provide a flexible schedule to adjust to the child’s interests: While flexibility can be beneficial in some cases, children with ASD often thrive on structured routines. Frequent changes can lead to confusion and increased anxiety. A rigid schedule, with consistent routines, is usually more effective.
- D. Allow for imaginative play with peers without supervision: Children with ASD may have difficulties with social interactions and understanding social cues. Unsupervised play can lead to misunderstandings or inappropriate behaviors. Supervision helps guide interactions and ensures that play is constructive and safe.
In summary, establishing a reward system for positive behavior is a targeted and effective intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder, providing them with clear incentives and support for learning and exhibiting desirable behaviors.