Doctor of Nursing Practice Clinical Inquiry Study
As part of a exploratory clinical practice inquiry, this doctoral research study will explore primary health care professionals’ perspectives on the identification, the evaluation, and the management of pediatric autism spectrum disorder utilizing the Reasoned Action Approach (RAA).
This pediatric ASD study will build upon the previous work of Dr. Michele Kilmer, DNP. In her prior research, Dr. Kilmer’s pilot program uncovered primary health care professionals’ hesitation to oversee the management of pediatric autism spectrum disorder as one of the most complicated factors in early identification and treatment initiation for ASD.
Utilizing the RAA methodology, developed by Dr. Martin Fishbein, PhD and Dr. Icek Ajzen, PhD, will allow for a better understanding about how primary care health care professionals’ pediatric autism spectrum disorder (ASD) beliefs, intentions, actual control, and practice behaviors shape the overall care of pediatric patients with ASD.
For the purposes of this study, a new quantitative survey instrument was created, which will be used to measure independent, mediator, moderator, and dependent variables. Prior to distribution, the survey instrument underwent a rigorous expert panel review by practicing developmental pediatricians and pediatric nurse practitioners from multiple states.
As part of this study, multiple hypothesis will be tested. It is hoped that this study’s findings will achieve statistical significance in order to inform future ASD research and clinical practice. Thereby, improving the future trajectory and outcomes of pediatric patients with ASD.
Research Classification
This Human Subjects Research study, protocol 2011296807, has been reviewed by the Institutional Review Board (IRB). It is determined to be “Exempt.”
It is being conducted at the University of Arkansas, which holds the highest Carnegie classification as a “Research 1 – Doctoral University: Very High Research Activity.”
Disclaimer: These materials are not endorsed, approved, sponsored, or provided by or on behalf of the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville.