Final answer:
Nurses should realize that children with autism may not show traditional signs of listening such as eye contact, and should not assume a child isn't listening just because they're not looking. Utilizing everyday information to initiate conversation and observing nonverbal cues is essential. Patience and adaptability in communication methods are crucial for creating a supportive environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
When planning to communicate with a child who has autism, it is important for a nurse to keep in mind that the traditional markers of active listening, such as maintaining eye contact, may not be present. It is a misconception to think that the child is not listening if they are not looking at the nurse. Children with autism may have different ways of processing information and expressing themselves.
A nurse should attempt to engage in communication by utilizing everyday and habitual information that the child can relate to. For instance, asking about daily routines or preferences can be a way to initiate conversation. Additionally, it's crucial to observe and respect nonverbal cues and to understand that each child with autism is unique, and their communication methods will vary.
It's important to create a supportive environment where the child feels safe and understood. Patience and flexibility in communication styles are key to successfully interacting with children with autism.