Abstract
Objectives:
To apply the nursing process of the self-care theory by Dorothea Orem and use Social Stories as a learning tool combined with the self-care theory to children with autism spectrum disorder.
Methods:
A qualitative descriptive study, single case of a child with Asperger syndrome, was carried out at the child's home, based on the theory of Dorothea Orem, with the use of the Social Stories. Data were collected by means of semistructured interviews, anamnesis and nursing interventions.
Results:
Three weekly interventions to encourage self-care and evaluations with the mother regarding the child's development were carried out. The child evolved from the partially compensatory system to the supportive-educative system due to the increase in self-care capacity to take a bath, brush his teeth, and clean himself after intestinal elimination.
Conclusion:
The association of the Orem's theory with Social Stories was considered an effective strategy to encourage the child's self-care.
Keywords:
Autistic Disorder; Self Care; Nursing; Nursing Process
