Beth, a six-year-old with autism, has received respite care through your home health agency for the past three years.

As the nurse case manager who oversees the CNA’s who provide Beth’s care, you know that Beth’s parents Mark and Sandy are warm, loving individuals who like to hug, kiss, and touch their children in a loving way.

During your last two visits, however, you notice that Mark and Sandy are not engaging Beth with the same nonverbal behaviors and that Beth seems to prefer sitting by herself. When you mention your observations to Mark and Sandy, they tearfully tell you that Beth doesn’t want to hug or kiss any more.
Click this button for an appropriate nursing intervention.