Transtorno do espectro autista na atenção básica: avaliação do conhecimento dos enfermeiros

Abstract

Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects approximately 2.4 million Brazilians and is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties in communication, social interaction, and restricted and repetitive behavioral patterns. Primary Health Care (PHC) is the preferred point of entry into the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS), where monitoring child development, especially by nurses during well-child visits, is essential for the early recognition of suggestive signs of the disorder. Objective: To identify nurses' knowledge about the signs and symptoms of ASD, aiming at early diagnosis and improving the quality of life of users. Methodology: This is a quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional study. The research was conducted in the first quarter of 2026 in three Basic Health Units (UBS) in a municipality in the Zona da Mata region of Minas Gerais. Data collection utilized two instruments: a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Knowledge of Childhood Autism among Healthcare Professionals Questionnaire (KCAHW). The data were subjected to descriptive statistical analysis. Results: The final sample consisted of 16 nurses. The overall average score on the KCAHW was 14.13 points (SD = 2.84), indicating, in general, a high level of knowledge about ASD. However, performance was lower in domains related to repetitive behaviors and aspects of diagnosis and comorbidities, highlighting difficulties in recognizing more specific technical and clinical characteristics of the disorder. Final Considerations: Although nurses possess a generally high/moderate level of knowledge, there are significant technical and scientific weaknesses, emphasizing the need to invest in continuing education and periodic training in primary health care to improve the screening and timely referral of children with signs of ASD.