Improving the Venipuncture Experience in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric healthcare quality improvement
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) interventions
• Evidence-based practice in healthcare

Background:

• Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience heightened fear and distress during healthcare, leading to noncompliance.
• Effective management of needle pain and fear is crucial for children with ASD due to their frequent healthcare needs and limited coping mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate evidence-based interventions for improving procedural care and managing challenging behaviors in children with ASD during venipuncture.
• To enhance the venipuncture experience for pediatric patients with ASD.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Iowa Model for evidence-based practice (EBP) improvement in a pediatric procedure and imaging suite.
• Implemented a practice change encompassing individualized care, patient/family preparation, clinician preparation, and system design based on literature, preferences, and input.

Main Results:

• Clinicians (n=16) showed increased knowledge, comfort, and resource availability, alongside improved workflow utilization and outcomes.
• Parents (n=20) reported improved preparedness, staff comfort, appointment flow, and a more supportive environment.
• Process measures informed improvement opportunities and strategy selection for practice change.

Conclusions:

• Optimizing care for children with ASD during venipuncture involves enhancing individualized care, preparation for patients/families and clinicians, and system design.
• An EBP process model and targeted implementation strategies can facilitate the adoption of interventions to support children with ASD.