A toddler's parent is concerned that the child may have autism. The M-CHAT indicates several areas of concern. What should the nurse practitioner do?

A toddler's parent is concerned that the child may have autism. The M-CHAT indicates several areas of concern. What should the nurse practitioner do?

• A. Administer a Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) in the clinic.
• B. Consult a specialist to determine appropriate early intervention strategies.
• C. Refer the child to a behavioral specialist for further evaluation.
• D. Tell the parent that this result indicates that the child has autism.

Answer: (C)

A positive screening result on a tool like the M-CHAT means there may be a developmental concern, but it does not confirm autism. The next step is a thorough diagnostic evaluation by a developmental-behavioral specialist to determine whether autism is present and to identify other possible developmental issues. This comprehensive evaluation, which may involve history, direct observation, and standardized assessments, guides appropriate interventions and support. Referencing a behavioral or developmental specialist for further evaluation is the best choice because it moves from screening toward a confirmed diagnosis and tailored plan. Administering another screening instrument in the clinic (like a CARS) doesn’t substitute for a full diagnostic workup, and starting early intervention without a confirmed assessment can lead to misdirected efforts. Also, telling the parent that autism is diagnosed is premature and inaccurate based solely on the screening result.

A positive screening result on a tool like the M-CHAT means there may be a developmental concern, but it does not confirm autism. The next step is a thorough diagnostic evaluation by a developmental-behavioral specialist to determine whether autism is present and to identify other possible developmental issues. This comprehensive evaluation, which may involve history, direct observation, and standardized assessments, guides appropriate interventions and support.

Referencing a behavioral or developmental specialist for further evaluation is the best choice because it moves from screening toward a confirmed diagnosis and tailored plan. Administering another screening instrument in the clinic (like a CARS) doesn’t substitute for a full diagnostic workup, and starting early intervention without a confirmed assessment can lead to misdirected efforts. Also, telling the parent that autism is diagnosed is premature and inaccurate based solely on the screening result.