NR602 Pediatric Midterm Study Set

The parent of a toddler is concerned that the child may have autism. The primary care pediatric nurse practitioner completes a Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) tool, which indicates several areas of concern. What will the nurse practitioner do? Administer a Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) in the clinic. Consult a specialist to determine appropriate early intervention strategies. Refer the child to a behavioral specialist for further evaluation. Tell the parent that this result indicates that the child has autism. - answer-ANS: C The M-CHAT is a screening tool and is useful for detecting behaviors that may indicate autism. This instrument has been found to have acceptable sensitivity, specificity, and significant positive predictive value. If these behaviors are detected, the PNP should refer the child to a specialist for further assessment, using more diagnostic tools. The CARS may be used but requires specialty training and proper credentials. Until the diagnosis is determined, strategies for intervention are not discussed. The M-CHAT is a screening tool and is not diagnostic. The mother of a newborn tells the primary care pediatric nurse practitioner that she is worried