Investigating autism knowledge, self-efficacy, and confidence following maternal and child health nurse training for the early identification of autism

Katherine Gore; Melissa Gilbert; Marguerite Hawke; Josephine Barbaro

doi:10.3389/fneur.2023.1201292

Investigating autism knowledge, self-efficacy, and confidence following maternal and child health nurse training for the early identification of autism

Front Neurol. 2024 Jan 9:14:1201292. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1201292. eCollection 2023.

Authors

Katherine Gore¹, Melissa Gilbert¹, Marguerite Hawke¹, Josephine Barbaro¹

Affiliation

¹ Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia.

Abstract

Introduction: Early identification of children with a high likelihood of autism can lead to referral for diagnostic services and access to early supports, resulting in improved outcomes for children and families. Maternal and Child Health Nurses (MCHNs) in Victoria, Australia, are well-placed to monitor infants and toddlers for signs of autism, given children and caregivers attend free, regular, well-baby consultations from birth through to school age. This study aimed to identify the impact of personal and workplace factors on MCHNs' competencies of autism knowledge, self-efficacy in identifying autistic infants and toddlers, and confidence in speaking to parents/caregivers about autism. Additionally, the study sought to identify which personal and workplace factors might predict increased competency in these areas.

Methods: After identifying training needs and current competency levels via a training needs analysis (TNA), 1,428 MCHNs received training on the early signs of autism and in the use of the Social Attention and Communication Surveillance-Revised (SACS-R) tool for early autism identification; the training program was known as Monitoring of Social Attention, Interaction, and Communication (MoSAIC).

Results: Previous MCHN autism training and knowledge of autism community resources significantly contributed to increased MCHN self-efficacy in identifying autistic infants and toddlers, while knowledge of community resources was the best predictor of confidence in speaking with parents/caregivers about autism. Perceived self-efficacy and confidence in speaking with parents/caregivers about autism significantly increased following the MoSAIC autism training.

Discussion: Targeted autism training for primary health practitioners is an important first step for early autism identification and initiating conversations with parents/caregivers.

Keywords: autism; early detection; early identification; infants; maternal and child health nurses; toddlers; workplace training.

Grants and funding

This study was funded by the Victorian State Goverment (2018).