NURSES IN SUPPORTING PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH ASD

Abstract

This study investigates the role of nurses in supporting parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The challenges of ASD not only affect the child, but also have profound repercussions on the lives of parents, influencing family relationships and quality of life. These parents face unique challenges, from diagnosis to day-to-day management of their children's complex needs. Since nurses are on the front line of care in basic health units (UBS), they end up playing an important role. Therefore, the question is: What is the role of nurses in supporting parents of children with ASD? This article aims to analyze the role of nurses in supporting parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. By specifying some objectives, we can understand the definition and characteristics of ASD; contextualize the impact and challenges of ASD on family dynamics; and present nursing intervention strategies. This is an integrative bibliographic review of the scientific literature, based on articles available in Google Scholar, Scielo, and BVS, studies published in the last 5 years to ensure up-to-date relevance. Through this review, the challenges faced by parents are explored, and how nursing intervention can mitigate these negative impacts. The aim is to provide clarification on the specific needs of parents of children with ASD in relation to their mental health, identify effective intervention strategies by nurses, and contribute to the development of more family-centered nursing practices in this context.