Final answer:
The first question a nurse should ask when investigating a concern over autism spectrum disorder is about the child's response to their name, as it relates to core challenges in social interaction and communication associated with ASD. c. "Does your child respond to his or her name?"
Step-by-step explanation:
If a parent is concerned that their child may have an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the nurse's first question would ideally address one of the core characteristics of the condition, such as:
"Does your child respond to his or her name?"
This initial inquiry is significant because children with ASD often have difficulty with social engagement and responding to social cues, which includes responding to their own name. In comparison to the other options, this question directly taps into the child's social responsiveness, a key indicator of ASD. If a child often does not respond when called, this might suggest difficulties with both social interaction and communication, which are hallmark features of ASD.
Children on the autism spectrum may exhibit a wide range of symptoms. These can include impaired social skills such as difficulty making eye contact, reading social cues, or empathizing with others; engagement in repetitive behaviors; an intense focus on specific subjects; adherence to strict rituals; and distinct language use patterns. Due to its spectrum nature, ASD manifests differently across individuals, ranging from those with significant challenges to others who are highly functional and may not perceive their unique characteristics as a disorder, but as an alternative way of processing information. Early assessment and identification of ASD are crucial for providing timely interventions and support.