Surabaya – As a concrete contribution to enhancing community knowledge and awareness regarding child health, students of Group 4 Batch 1 Nurse Professional Program Pediatric Nursing Rotation, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga Class of 49, conducted a Hospital Health Education (PKRS) session themed “Getting to Know Children with Autism More Closely” in the Pediatric Outpatient Clinic Waiting Room at Universitas Airlangga Hospital (RSUA).
This activity was targeted at parents, families, and visitors of the RSUA Pediatric Outpatient Clinic as an effort to increase understanding of autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Through this educational initiative, participants were encouraged to further recognize the characteristics of children with autism, including observable signs and symptoms, aspects of child development and behavior, as well as various challenges that may be faced by the children and their families.
During the presentation, students delivered education on the importance of early detection, understanding the unique needs and characteristics of each child, and the essential role of families in supporting the growth and development of children with autism. In addition, participants were provided with insights into the importance of appropriate approaches, supportive communication, and a safe, nurturing environment so that children can develop according to their potential and abilities.
The execution of this PKRS program was supervised by Ika Nursetyo Palupi, S.Kep., Ns. and Deasy Nusiyanti, S.Kep., Ns. as Clinical Instructors. Prior to the event, students conducted consultations and coordination regarding the material and educational media with Dr. Iqlima Dwi Kurnia, S.Kep., Ns., M.Kep. as the Academic Advisor. This preparation was undertaken to ensure the educational content aligned with target audience needs and supported the delivery of accurate, easily understandable health information to the public.
Through this activity, students not only fulfilled the nursing role as educators, but also contributed to improving family health literacy, particularly regarding the understanding of children with autism. It is hoped that this education will assist parents and families in better recognizing children’s characteristics, avoiding stigma and misconceptions, and providing positive, accepting, and sustainable support for children with autism.
This initiative stands as a tangible form of contribution by the Nurse Professional Education Program students of the Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga, in providing health education to the community while advancing professional competencies in pediatric nursing practice.
Writer: Azzara Putri Wibisono
