Date of Award
2024
Document Type
Capstone
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
October 2026
College Granting Degree
Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Nancy Harris
Thesis/Dissertation Co-Chair
Awan
Abstract
This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project was to enhance primary care providers' self-efficacy in delivering effective care to neurodivergent adults. Despite the growing recognition of neurodivergence, many primary care providers report feeling inadequately prepared to meet the complex healthcare needs of autistic patients, resulting in barriers to care, miscommunication, and suboptimal health outcomes. This project sought to address these gaps by integrating a comprehensive, evidence-based educational resource, Clinical Care for Autistic Adults, into a professional development initiative for primary care providers. The course covers critical topics such as understanding autism spectrum disorder (ASD), recognizing co-occurring health conditions, effective communication strategies, and promoting patient-centered care. Providers participated in the course and completed pre- and post-intervention A.A.S.P.I.R.E surveys to assess changes in their knowledge, confidence, and attitudes regarding the care of autistic individuals. Findings indicated significant improvements in providers' self-reported self-efficacy. The results suggested that implementing education such as the Clinical Care for Autistic Adults can improve providers self-efficacy by helping to equip providers with the tools necessary to navigate a growingly diverse patient population.
Extent
25 p.
Recommended Citation
Brummit, Morgan L., "Enhancing Provider Self-Efficacy in Caring for Neurodivergent Patients in Primary Care" (2024). Electronic Theses and Dissertations 2020 - Present. 1554.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general/1554
Identifier
faudnp000103