Autism Spectrum Disorder Awareness

Course content

Awareness of autism is growing but there is still a lot of confusion around what the condition is, its causes and how it affects people. ASD limits and impairs everyday functioning, which can result in social communication and interaction difficulties and restricted or repetitive behaviour patterns.

Participants will learn about the main diagnostic tools – DISCO, ADI-R and ADOS – and assessments that follow the national guidelines and the National Autism Plan for Children (NAPC).

• Autism facts

• Autism myths

• Signs, symptoms and diagnosis

• Asperger syndrome, pathological demand avoidance and other types of autism

• Cognitive thinking, emotions, behaviours and identity impact

• Social interaction, communication, interests and behaviour

• Therapy, intervention and support

• Medication, treatment and antipsychotic medication

• Side effects and complications

Autism – Always Unique Totally Intelligent Sometimes Mysterious

Who is this course designed for?

The Autism Spectrum Disorder Awareness course is ideal for any nurse, carer, care support worker or manager working within children’s and adult’s services. The knowledge gained from the course will equip participants with the confidence to support anyone with ASD and to address their needs appropriately.

Parents, carers or non-clinical health staff who live with family members, or come into contact with ASD clients, are also welcome to attend the course to improve their awareness.

Course duration

Autism Spectrum Disorder Awareness is a five-hour course, which includes breaks.

Course outcome

At the end of the course, participants will understand the complexities of ASD, how it impacts people’s lives and the diagnosis, assessment and treatment options required to support people living with the condition.

Participants learn about roles and responsibilities, the medication available, how best to treat people with ASD conditions and the potential side effects and complications.