The nurse is performing a routine assessment of a 3-year-old at a community health center. Which behavior by the child should alert the nurse to request a follow-up for a possible autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?

Choice A reason: "Many infants outgrow the need for a shunt after the neonatal period." is not a correct response that the nurse should provide. This statement is false, as most infants with hydrocephalus will need a shunt for life. Only a small percentage of infants with post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus may outgrow the need for a shunt .

Choice B reason: "The shunt will be replaced as your child grows to reduce pressure in the brain." is the correct response that the nurse should provide. This statement is true, as the shunt will need to be adjusted or replaced as the child grows to accommodate the changes in the size and shape of the head and the amount of fluid drainage. The nurse should educate the mother about the signs and symptoms of shunt malfunction and the need for regular follow-up visits.

Choice C reason: "Other pathways in the brain will drain fluid after the shunt is removed." is not a correct response that the nurse should provide. This statement is false, as the shunt is not removed unless there is a serious complication or the child no longer needs it. The shunt is a permanent device that bypasses the blocked or impaired pathways in the brain and allows the fluid to drain into the abdomen. Without the shunt, the fluid will accumulate in the brain and cause increased pressure and damage.

Choice D reason: "The shunt will have to be reinserted only if an infection or blockage develops." is not a correct response that the nurse should provide. This statement is false, as the shunt is not removed and reinserted unless there is a serious complication or the child no longer needs it. The shunt is a permanent device that stays in place unless it malfunctions or becomes infected. The nurse should educate the mother about the signs and symptoms of shunt infection and the need for prompt treatment.

Choice A reason: Showing indifference to verbal stimulation is not a specific sign of ASD. Some children may have hearing problems, language delays, or other developmental issues that affect their response to verbal cues. However, the nurse should still assess the child's hearing and language skills and refer them to a specialist if needed.

Choice B reason: Having a history of temper tantrums is not a specific sign of ASD. Many children have tantrums as a normal part of their emotional development, especially when they are frustrated, tired, or hungry. However, the nurse should still evaluate the frequency, intensity, and duration of the tantrums and provide guidance to the parents on how to manage them.

Choice C reason: Stroking the hair of a handheld doll is not a specific sign of ASD. This behavior may indicate that the child has a preference for tactile stimulation, which is common among children. It may also show that the child has an attachment to the doll, which is a positive sign of social development.

Choice D reason: Performing odd repetitive behaviors is a specific sign of ASD. These behaviors may include rocking, spinning, hand flapping, lining up objects, or repeating words or sounds. These behaviors are often used by children with ASD to cope with sensory overload, anxiety, or boredom. They may also interfere with the child's learning and social interaction. The nurse should request a follow-up for a possible ASD diagnosis and provide support to the child and the parents.