Pilot educational intervention for the care of adolescents with autism spectrum disorder during puberty

Puberty is a particularly vulnerable time for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) during which baseline challenges are exacerbated, functioning often deteriorates, and additional barriers emerge. Specific concerns include increased vulnerability, decreased safety, and increased mood and behavioral disturbances. Youth with ASD need guidance and explicit instruction/skill development on topics such as hygiene/self-care, appropriate sexual activity, and menstruation management. Lack of provider preparation, knowledge, and confidence, along with stigma about the needs and capabilities of individuals with ASD, are major barriers to care. Initiatives to expand the preparation of health care personnel, including nurse practitioners, to provide quality care to individuals with ASD are essential. This article describes the results of a pilot project using a brief, self-guided educational intervention for developing and practicing family nurse practitioners. Before and after viewing the educational module, participants completed author-created surveys assessing their self-perceived knowledge, attitudes, and intent to change practice. Expert analysis of survey items provided face validity. Comparison of mean presurvey and postsurvey responses showed significant increases in self-perceived knowledge, attitudes, and intent to implement practice changes. Lack of confidence was endorsed as the most common remaining barrier to change. Findings indicate that the brief module improved participants' self-reported knowledge, attitudes, and intent to implement practice recommendations. Such interventions can be easily incorporated into nursing education and professional development and are appropriate for dissemination to nurse practitioners working within and outside primary care settings, as well as to related service providers.