Final answer:
The nurse should explain that a child with autism may have an extremely developed skill in a particular area, though challenges in social skills and communication may be present. ASD is not outgrown and presents a spectrum of capabilities.
Step-by-step explanation:
When parents learn their 6-year-old child has autism, a nurse might explain that the child may have an extremely developed skill in a particular area. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that presents with a range of symptoms and abilities. Children with autism may exhibit impaired social skills, have difficulty making and maintaining eye contact, struggle with reading social cues, and at times may lack empathy.
Despite challenges in some areas, individuals with ASD may attain or surpass typical developmental milestones in others, such as developing a highly specialized skill or having good-to-excellent language skills. It is important to note that ASD is a lifelong condition and not something one outgrows, and therefore, the idea that a child may outgrow the condition by early adulthood is inaccurate. Additionally, the claim that a child with ASD will have average social skills or age-appropriate language skills cannot be generalized as it is highly dependent on the individual's place on the autism spectrum.