Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) 2024 (NA2408)
Author(s): Patsy Barnes, RN, BA
Pre-Approved for: ACM, CA BRN, CCLCP, CCM, CDMS, CE Broker Provider, CLCP, CMCPS, COHN/COHN-S, CRCC, CVE, CVRP, RNs, VRA-Canada
Credit Hours: 5
Course Format
This course is online. All course material is available online and is accessible immediately after purchase from your account homepage. Certificate of Completion is available immediately upon passing the exam.
Course Overview
The incidence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnoses among children is increasing, encompassing a broad range of behaviors. Notably, there is a rise in diagnoses among Black and Hispanic children. Concurrently, there is a significant shortage of specialized caregivers and therapists. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this issue, causing delays in testing and diagnosis, which deprived children of critical time for treatment and services.
This course will provide a comprehensive overview of ASD, including the spectrum of behaviors and difficulties, treatment options such as Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), and the impact of COVID-19 on autism. Additionally, the course will cover the protections and accommodations mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), discuss Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, and provide a practical toolkit for parents.
Course Objectives
- Describe Autism Spectrum Disorder and its spectrum.
- List the steps involved in diagnosing a child with autism and the recommended testing protocols.
- Explain the changes in DSM-5 and the outdated terms and descriptions of autism.
- Present treatment options for individuals with autism, including CAM therapies.
- List recommended accommodations under the ADA for individuals on the autism spectrum.
- Explain the relationship between the COVID-19 pandemic, the resulting restrictions, and autism.
- Describe Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and its benefits for individuals with autism.
Course Outline
- Autism: The Disease and the Spectrum:
a. Screening for Autism Spectrum Disorder
b. Clinical Testing and Diagnosis
c. DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria
d. Causes and Risk Factors for ASD
e. Autism in Adults
f. Treatment of Autism
- CAM Treatments for Autism
- DSM Clarification and Changes in Terminology
- ADA and Autism: Including Accommodations
- COVID-19 and Autism
- ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) and Toolkit for Parents