Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are often prescribed medications to help control self-injurious behaviors, aggression, compulsive behaviors, and hyperactivity. Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) should be familiar with medication-related behavior changes and side effects. The purpose of this study was to evaluate SLPs' self-assessment of knowledge regarding medications prescribed to children with ASD. SLPs registered with the Kansas Speech- Language Hearing Association were provided a link to an online survey. The response rate was 13%, (n = 56). Overall, 88% of respondents felt they had a good understanding of ASD characteristics; but only 15% felt they had a good understanding of ASD medications. Only 14% were satisfied with their medication knowledge, 79% wanted to be more knowledgeable, and 60% felt they knew where to locate medication information. SLPs that completed continuing education were more likely to be satisfied with their knowledge regarding ASD characteristics than with ASD medications.

Paper presented to the 5th Annual Symposium on Graduate Research and Scholarly Projects (GRASP) held at the Hughes Metropolitan Complex, Wichita State University, May 1, 2009.Research completed at the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders and Department of Physician Assistant, College of Health Professions