81005512

open access

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Challenges faced by Japanese Public Health Nurses in Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their Families : A qualitative study

Bulletin of health sciences Kobe

29

37-44

Graduate School of Health Sciences, Kobe University

2013

2014-04-04

This qualitative descriptive study explored the challenges faced by Japanese Public Health Nurses in supporting pre-school-aged children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families. Nine Public Health Nurses volunteered to participate in the study. Data was collected through nine in-depth interviews with data collection and analysis continuing until all themes was saturated. Six main themes were identified: 1) expertise in child development; 2) reviewing clients’ needs, acquiring new resources and developing existing resources; 3) collaborating with Allied Health Professionals of relevant organizations; 4) core role of the Public Health Nurse; 5) developing rapport with the family; and 6) being a partner in family support. The findings indicated the need for improved training for Public Health Nurses in supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, in order to reduce the challenges they encounter. Training is also required to improve the practical skills for creating appropriate resources in the community, and to promote collaboration with Allied Health Professionals. Improving the skills of Public Health Nurses will provide them with confidence in overcoming many challenges they face when delivering appropriate support to clients.

紀要論文