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Published on: March 14, 2018
Early detection of autism spectrum disorders: screening between 12 and 24 months of age
1School of Education, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Insights
Early screening for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in toddlers by nurse practitioners is crucial. Prompt diagnosis and early intervention (EI) significantly benefit children with ASD, improving developmental outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Clinical Screening Tools
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presents with challenges in social interaction, communication, and behavior.
- Early detection and intervention are critical for improving outcomes in children with ASD.
- Nurse practitioners (NPs) play a key role in identifying developmental concerns in young children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide nurse practitioners (NPs) with information on screening for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in children aged 12-24 months.
- To offer guidance on appropriate referrals and the initiation of early intervention (EI) for suspected ASD cases.
- To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and intervention for children with ASD.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive review of published literature on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was conducted.
- Focus on identifying effective screening methods for toddlers.
- Literature search aimed at understanding the benefits of early intervention programs.
Main Results:
- Children with ASD characteristically display impaired social interaction, communication deficits, and repetitive behaviors.
- Intensive early intervention (EI) has demonstrated significant benefits for children diagnosed with ASD.
- Timely screening by NPs using validated instruments enhances diagnostic accuracy and efficiency.
Conclusions:
- Early detection of ASD allows for prompt specialist evaluation and entry into treatment programs.
- NPs are vital in implementing early screening to facilitate timely diagnosis and intervention.
- Initiating intensive EI as early as possible is crucial for children with ASD.
Purpose:
The purpose of this article is to present nurse practitioners (NPs) with information on screening for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in children between 12 and 24 months of age. Recommendations are also provided for appropriate referrals and initiation of early intervention (EI).
Data Sources:
Review of published literature about ASD.
Conclusions:
Children with ASD exhibit impaired social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication deficits, and repetitive, restricted, and stereotyped patterns of behavior or interests. Studies show that these children benefit from beginning intensive EI as soon as possible.
Implications For Practice:
Early detection enables children with suspected ASD to be evaluated by specialists and entered into treatment programs at the earliest possible opportunity. Because of the importance of early diagnosis of ASD, it is critical that NPs use established screening instruments to maximize time and increase the reliability of the assessment.
