Autism appears to be on the rise in children and adults. What can be done to prevent complications and help these patients maximize their abilities? What is the best way to control the vesical, tactile, and auditory symptoms of autism?—SUSAN DWYER, ARNP-C, MSN, Levittown, N.Y.
While having diagnostic criteria in common, each child with autism experiences unique symptoms as well. The following references are extremely helpful for evidence-based direction in assessment and treatment/management: Pediatrics. 2008;121:828-830 (available at pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/121/4/828, accessed July 14, 2009); Pediatrics. 2009;123:1383-1891; and J Pediatr Health Care. 2009;23:75-89. This topic is also addressed in The Clinical Advisor‘s July 2009 issue (“Recognizing autism spectrum disorder,” available at www.clinicaladvisor.com/Recognizing-autism -spectrum-disorder/article/139592/).—Julee B. Waldrop, MS, PNP (131-1)
