The nurse is reviewing the records of a child diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD). Which of the following client outcomes should the nurse recognize as realistic for a client diagnosed with ASD?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason:Expecting a child with ASD to communicate all needs verbally by discharge may not be realistic, as communication challenges are a core feature of ASD. Some individuals with ASD may never develop verbal communication skills and may rely on alternative methods of communication.Choice B reason:Participation in team sports may be challenging for a child with ASD due to difficulties with social interaction and sensory processing. While some children with ASD may enjoy and excel in sports, expecting participation in a team sport by day 4 may not account for the individual needs and preferences of the child.Choice C reason:Establishing trust with a caregiver is an important goal, but the timeframe of 5 days may be too short. Building trust can take time, especially for children with ASD who may have difficulty with new relationships and changes in their environment.Choice D reason:Focusing on self-care tasks is a realistic and practical goal for a child with ASD. With appropriate support and interventions, many individuals with ASD can learn to perform self-care tasks independently, although the level of independence will vary based on the individual's abilities and needs.