Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Online Continuing Education Course Presented by Care and Compliance Group, Inc.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Care and Compliance Group, Inc. and the authors of this course have attempted to offer useful information and assessment tools that have been accepted and used by professionals. Nevertheless, changes in the health care delivery regulations and medical technology will alter the application of some concepts and techniques presented in this course. Care and Compliance Group, Inc. and the authors of this course disclaim any liability, loss, injury, or damage incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and application of any of the concepts in this course. All rights reserved. No part of this course may be reproduced or utilized in any form, by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from Care and Compliance Group, Inc. Enrolled learners have permission to print the materials in this course for their own use only as a study aid during their completion of this course.
Course Description
This course presents current information on the Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Common terminology, characteristics, screening recommendations, diagnostic criteria, and management of ASD is presented. Participants will learn the diagnostic criteria and distinguishing characteristics of Autism, Asperger's Disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified. Best practices and intervention planning for individuals of all ages are discussed.
1. Define the term Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). 2. Name the three (3) primary conditions encompassed within the Autism Spectrum Disorders. 3. Discuss the common characteristics or indicators frequently seen in persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders. 4. Distinguish the differences according to diagnostic criteria for Autistic Disorder, Aspergers Disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS. 5. Discuss the causes of ASD. 6. Name the other medical conditions frequently seen in people with ASD. Continued--
1. Discuss key concepts in identifying and managing Autism Spectrum Disorders. 2. Describe the screening and diagnostic evaluation process as they relate to Autism Spectrum Disorders in children and adults. 3. Describe treatment options and common procedures for ASDs. 4. Discuss the best practice recommendations for children and adults with ASDs.
TERMINOLOGY
Various terms related to resident care are used throughout this course. While most of these terms are commonly accepted in the industry, there is some variation from state to state, and within different organizations. To clarify these terms and to improve your understanding of their meaning a brief explanation is provided on the following two pages.
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TERMINOLOGY, cont.
Terminology used in this course:
Community: The care setting is referred to as an assisted living
or residential care community. Although the term "facility" is often used in state regulations and by some in the industry, we feel it is important to distinguish a group home, adult residential facility, and/or an assisted living or residential care residence as a home, rather than strictly a clinical facility. When the word "community" is used in this course it is referring to the care setting, not the community at large. Clarification will be provided if necessary. In some cases, such as when quoting from regulations, the term facility will be used.
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TERMINOLOGY, cont.
Terminology used in this course:
Caregiver: This is the person providing care. Although there are
exceptions, typically this person is not a licensed medical professional.
Additional Terminology
Autism: a spectrum disorder which encompasses a range of neurological afflictions ASD: autism spectrum disorders (may also be called autistic spectrum disorders or pervasive developmental disorders) PDD-NOS: pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified DSM-IV-TR: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental DisorderFourth Edition, Text Revision NIMH: National Institute of Mental Health
Welcome!
Lets review the VERY IMPORTANT DIRECTIONS before you get started:
This course is self-paced. Feel free to take as much time as you need to read each slide.
You may go forward to the next slide or backwards to a previous slide within this course.
Within this course may be some questions to help you check your understanding. These questions are not graded; they are included to help you with the material. At the end of this course is a Final Exam to make sure you understand the material. You must complete the Exam to complete the course. This course starts with a pretest to help you assess your knowledge. You must complete the pre-test before beginning the instruction in the course.
Module 1 Introduction
This course is divided into two learning modules. In this first module the information is presented in the following section topics:
Introduction Statistics Autism Spectrum Disorders: Definitions and Types Common Characteristics or Indicators of ASD History: Autistic Disorder History: Aspergers Disorder Research: ASD and the Brain ASD and Other Problems ASD: Diagnostic Criteria
INTRODUCTION
Introduction
Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDDs) are also known as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). In this course we will be using the terms interchangeably. PDDs cause severe and pervasive impairment in thinking, feeling, language, and the ability to relate to others. PDDs are usually first diagnosed in early childhood.
Introduction, cont.
The term Autism Spectrum Disorders includes five separate conditions. The first three are the primary ASDs: Autistic Disorder Aspergers Disorder Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS) These conditions all have some of the same symptoms, but they differ in terms of when the symptoms start, how severe they are, and the exact nature of the symptoms.
Introduction, cont.
The three primary ASDs listed on the previous page, along with two rare conditions called Rett Syndrome and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, make up the broad diagnosis category of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD) or Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).
Introduction, cont.
Autism is the most common of the five Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Although the classic form of autism can be easily distinguished from other forms of autistic spectrum disorders, the terms autism and autism spectrum disorders are often used interchangeably.
Introduction, cont.
In this course we will focus on the three most common Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): Autism Disorder, Aspergers Disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS.
STATISTICS
Statistics
Estimates of the prevalence of autism vary widely depending on diagnostic criteria, age of children screened, and geographical location. State departments of education around the country are reporting alarming increases in the numbers of children receiving an autism diagnosis. One of the most hotly debated autism topics is whether rates of incidence are actually rising or if improved diagnostic techniques account for the rises seen throughout the country.
Statistics, cont.
The number of reported cases of autism increased dramatically in the 1990s and early 2000s, prompting investigations into several potential reasons:
More children may have autism; that is, the true frequency of autism may have increased. There may be a more complete finding of cases as a result of increased awareness and funding. The diagnosis may be applied more broadly than before as a result of the changing definition of the disorder, particularly changes in DSM-III-R and DSM-IV diagnostic criteria. Successively earlier diagnosis in each succeeding cohort of children, including recognition in preschool, may have affected apparent prevalence, but not incidence.
Statistics, cont.
A 2009 study of California data found that the reported incidence of autism rose 7- to 8-fold from the early 1990s to 2007. Changes in diagnostic criteria, inclusion of milder cases, and earlier age of diagnosis probably explain only a 4.25-fold increase. The study did not quantify the effects of wider awareness of autism, increased funding, and expanding treatment options resulting in parents' greater motivation to seek services.
Statistics, cont.
In summary, the reported increase is largely attributable to changes in diagnostic practices, age at diagnosis, and public awareness. But, these changes apparently do not account for all the increase in prevalence that is seen. Researchers believe that the actual frequency of autism has increased.
Statistics, cont.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (February 2007), autism spectrum disorders affect approximately 1 in 150 children (6.6 per 100 children). ASD diagnosis commonly occurs between the ages of ten (10) months and three (3) years of age, with a majority of diagnoses taking place by the age of one.
Statistics, cont.
While ASD diagnosis most commonly occurs prior to the age of three, there are some children who are not properly diagnosed until they begin kindergarten at the age of five (5) or later. Some cases of ASD may not be properly diagnosed until adulthood, even late adulthood. Some cases may never be appropriately diagnosed.
Statistics, cont.
In an effort to avoid these delayed diagnoses, families, teachers, and others who care for children, especially children considered at risk for ASD, are familiarized with assessments, tools, guidelines, and best practices for detecting ASD.
They will often have unusual responses to sensory experiences, such as certain sounds or the physical appearance of certain objects. Each of these symptoms runs the gamut from mild to severe and will present differently in each individual child, adult, and elderly adult.
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A few adolescents show marked improvement in their behavior and skills, while others may show serious behavioral regression. Sexual development and interest varies with physical development, but in general is delayed.
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The presence of a disability seems to become more obvious in the physical appearance of the older person, especially if they also have an intellectual disability. Epilepsy or seizures may develop in a number of adolescents with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.
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If they have received specialist intervention, adults with an Autism Spectrum Disorder are able to partly overcome their difficulties but continue to require sensitive and sustained support, usually from their families.
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Aspergers Disorder
Aspergers Disorder is diagnosed by the presence of social interaction impairments and repetitive and restricted interests. There is usually no significant language delay, yet there are impairments in the social use of language often leading to isolation. This disorder is more common in males (13:1)*.
*Note: this disorder may be under-diagnosed in females.
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PDD-NOS Defined
The third primary ASD is Pervasive Developmental DisorderNot Otherwise Specified. Pervasive Developmental DisorderNot Otherwise Specified is included in DSM-IVTR to encompass cases where there is marked impairment of social interaction, communication, and/or stereotyped behavior patterns or interest, but when full features for another explicitly defined PDD are not met.
PDD-NOS Information
Although PDD-NOS is a well-recognized form of ASD, studies on PDD-NOS are less common than those on Aspergers Disorder and Autistic Disorder. PDD-NOS has less diagnostic research on it than any other ASD.
Causes of ASD
There is no known single cause for autism. It is generally accepted that autism is caused by abnormalities in brain structure or function. Brain scans show differences in the shape and structure of the brain in children with autism versus non-autistic children. Researchers are investigating a number of theories, including the link between heredity, genetics and medical problems.
Research
Because of its relative inaccessibility, scientists have only recently been able to study the brain systematically. But with the emergence of new brain imaging tools the study of the structure and the functioning of the brain can now be done. Postmortem and MRI studies have shown that many major brain structures are implicated in autism. This includes the cerebellum, cerebral cortex, limbic system, corpus callosum, basal ganglia, and brain stem. Other research is focusing on the role of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and epinephrine.
By the age 18, the brain in a majority of people with ASD is of normal weight.
Causes of ASD
Much of ASD remains a mystery, and some researchers are focusing on environmental factors, as others continue to investigate genetics. Current theory holds that ASD results from a combination of genetics and environmental factors.
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Diagnosis of ASD
Accurate diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder is important for a number of reasons, including: Assessment can assist in understanding why someone is different and understand his/her strengths, challenges, and needs Early intervention and appropriate educational programs can be implemented Access to support services can be facilitated
Influences in Behavior
Common difficulties encountered with the management of ASD in children and adults are:
Difficult behavior, such as tantrums, obsessions, aggression, etc. Communication problems Disturbed routine, such as sleep or finicky eating Social issues such as inappropriate behavior, isolation, teasing, bullying, etc.
DSM-IV-TR Criteria
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder Fourth Edition (DSM-IV-TR), published by the American Psychiatric Association, Washington, D.C. is the main diagnostic reference of mental health professionals in the United States. The DSM-IV-TR outlines specific diagnostic criteria for each of the five Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs), also called Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDDs).
All PDDs
All of the Pervasive Developmental Disorders are characterized by severe and pervasive impairment in several areas of development including: 1. reciprocal social interaction skills 2. communication skills, or 3. the presence of stereotyped behavior, interests, and activities. The qualitative impairment that define the different ASD conditions are described in the following pages.
Diagnostic Criteria
The following pages present the specific diagnostic criteria that is found in the DSM-IV-TR for all 5 of the Autism Spectrum Disorders.
DSM-IV-TR Criteria - 299.80 Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
This category should be used when there is a severe and pervasive impairment in the development of reciprocal social interaction associated with impairment in either verbal and nonverbal communication skills, or with the presence of stereotyped behavior, interests, and activities, but the criteria are not met for a specific pervasive developmental disorder, schizophrenia, schizotypal personality disorder, or avoidant personality disorder.
D. The disturbance is not better accounted for by another specific pervasive developmental disorder or by schizophrenia.
Disclaimer Notice
As previously noted in this presentation please remember that there is much to learn about ASD and that the information presented is the best available at this time.
Summary: Module 1
This is the end of the information in Module 1. In this module you learned:
The terminology, definitions, and the five conditions associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Common characteristics or indicators frequently seen in persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The differences in diagnostic criteria for each of the five ASDs. The causes of ASD. Other medical conditions frequently seen in people with ASD.
Module 2 Content
In Module 2 we will build upon the information you learned in this module. In Module 2 we will discuss:
Key concepts in identifying and managing Autism Spectrum Disorders. The screening and diagnostic evaluation process as they relate to Autism Spectrum Disorders in children and adults. Treatment options and common procedures for ASDs. Best practice recommendations for children and adults with ASDs.
Module 1 Completed
This is the end of Module 1 Next, you will begin Module 2 If you feel you are ready, please close this window and proceed to Module 2 from the main Curriculum Contents window.