Reflect on your experience creating a treatment plan for a toddler, school-aged child, or adolescent with autism or an intellectual disability.
- Describe the clinical situation in detail. (Who was it, when did it happen, what happened, what caused it to happen, where did it happen, how did it happen). What feelings, prejudices, and biases did you experience during your clinical experience?
- How did you manage your anxieties, feelings, prejudices, and biases?
- What assumptions did you make about people with mental illness?
- What awareness did you develop during your clinical experience?
- Describe how you changed because of your clinical experience?
- Describe how this clinical situation will impact your advanced nursing practice?
- Use DIEP Model as a guide
DIEP Model stands for Description, Interpretation, Evaluation, and Plan. Let’s use this model to reflect on the experience of creating a treatment plan for a school-aged child with autism.
Description: The clinical situation occurred during my time as a pediatric nurse practitioner in a community clinic. It happened approximately six months ago when a 7-year-old boy named Alex was brought in by his parents for an evaluation and treatment of his autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Alex had been experiencing difficulties in social interactions, communication, and exhibited repetitive behaviors. His parents reported that these challenges had been present since early childhood and had significantly affected his school performance and overall quality of life.
Interpretation: During this clinical experience, I initially felt a mix of emotions, including empathy for the child and his family, as well as some anxiety about developing an effective treatment plan. I recognized that I had some unconscious biases and prejudices about individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities, which stemmed from limited exposure and understanding of their experiences. I had assumptions that people with mental illnesses, including ASD, would always struggle with basic life skills and have limited potential for improvement.
Evaluation: To manage my anxieties, feelings, prejudices, and biases, I took proactive steps. First, I acknowledged my biases and consciously challenged them by seeking education and understanding about autism and intellectual disabilities. I attended workshops, read research articles, and engaged in discussions with colleagues who had experience in this field. This helped me gain a broader perspective and challenge my preconceived notions.
I also made an effort to establish a collaborative relationship with Alex’s parents. I recognized the importance of involving the family in the treatment planning process and valuing their expertise and insight into their child’s needs. By actively listening to their concerns, I was able to address their fears and build trust.
Assumptions I made about people with mental illness included the belief that they were unable to reach their full potential and that their condition defined their abilities. However, my clinical experience challenged these assumptions. I learned that every individual with autism or intellectual disability is unique, with their own strengths and abilities. With appropriate interventions and support, they can make significant progress and lead fulfilling lives.
Awareness: Through this clinical experience, I developed a heightened awareness of the importance of person-centered care. I realized that it was crucial to view each child as an individual and tailor the treatment plan to their specific needs and strengths. I recognized the need for ongoing assessment and modification of interventions to ensure they remained relevant and effective for the child’s developmental stage and changing circumstances.
Change: As a result of this clinical experience, my approach to working with individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities has transformed significantly. I now approach each patient with empathy, recognizing their potential for growth and the importance of providing them with the necessary tools and support to reach their goals. I have become more open-minded and value the contributions and perspectives of the individuals and families I work with.
Impact on Advanced Nursing Practice: This clinical situation has had a profound impact on my advanced nursing practice. I have incorporated the principles of person-centered care and evidence-based interventions into my practice. I actively seek opportunities for continuing education and professional development in the field of autism and intellectual disabilities. I am also committed to advocating for increased awareness, acceptance, and inclusion of individuals with these conditions within healthcare settings and the broader community.