Nurses may be able to help families as they go through a process of accepting the diagnosis and seeking care for their children with autism.

Parents can go through emotional phases that are similar to phases of grieving someone’s death. Parents may go through shock, sadness, anger, disorganization, despair, and eventually reorganization and acceptance. Nurses can learn about therapy and treatment options to help support parents as they make decisions about care of their children with autism. Medication is often part of the treatment plan, and nurses can help parents by giving information and support to them.