Pediatricians, Pediatric Nurses’, and parents’ Experience with Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Background and Aims: Autism spectrum disorder is a social development disorder that affects brain development and, as a result, behavior. It is becoming more common worldwide, and more emphasis is needed to view the perspective of all parties involved in treating autistic children. The study aims to determine the experiences of parents, pediatric physicians, and pediatric nurses on the impact of enhanced therapies for children with ASD. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out that utilized a pre-validated three questionnaires targeting pediatricians, pediatric nurses, and parents involved with autistic children. Knowledge scores regarding signs and symptoms were calculated by adding one point to each recognized symptom and 0 for unrecognized ones. Results: According to the participants, poor communication was the most common symptom of ASD. Most pediatricians and pediatric nurses believe behavioral and pharmacological approaches to ASD management have no negative impact. Most pediatricians, pediatric nurses, and parents can manage the child’s condition, and most healthcare providers participate on special days, hope to be a part of the research team in the future, and collaborate with their colleagues to improve their ability to find a cure. Pediatricians’ and pediatrics’ experiences had a significant difference in knowledge of signs and symptoms of ASD (p-value- 0.008). Furthermore, older parents were less likely to be stigmatized than younger parents (p- value≤ 0.016). Conclusions: Patients with ASD can benefit from enhanced therapy to improve their speech, comprehension, communication, sleep, and diet. Involved healthcare providers and parents are in favor of intensifying therapy. Most pediatricians, pediatric nurses, and parents are capable of dealing with a child’s illness.

References

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