Asperger's Syndrome: Implications for Nursing Practice

The most common disorders within the category of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD) are the Autistic Disorders. In the 1994 Diagnostic and Statistical Manual-IV, Asperger's Disorder became a distinct diagnosis within the Autistic category, as part of the disorders first diagnosed in childhood and adolescence. The terms Asperger's Disorder and Asperger's Syndrome are used interchangeably. Attention to and knowledge of Asperger's Syndrome (AS) are necessary to differentiate it from closely related disorders that have overlapping symptoms. There is much discussion about different definitions of Asperger's, different viewpoints of experts in the field, and the diagnostic dilemmas related thereto. Last, and most important, are the nursing implications. Nurses are in a position to identify children with Asperger's early. After identification, the necessary referrals, treatment options, support, and follow-up are essential for these children. Nurses need more knowledge about this disorder and need to be proactive in defining their role to help children with the disorder in the schools and the community.