@article{ref1,
title="Improving emergency department care for suicidality in autism: perspectives from autistic youth, caregivers, and clinicians",
journal="Journal of autism and developmental disorders",
year="2024",
author="Cervantes, Paige E. and Palinkas, Lawrence A. and Conlon, Greta R. and Richards-Rachlin, Shira and Sullivan, Katherine A. and Baroni, Argelinda and Horwitz, Sarah M.",
volume="ePub",
number="ePub",
pages="ePub-ePub",
abstract="PURPOSE: Emergency department (ED) visits for suicidal ideation and self-harm are more prevalent in autistic than non-autistic youth. However, providers are typically offered insufficient guidance for addressing suicide risk in autistic youth, likely impacting confidence and care. <br><br>METHODS: In this pilot study, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 17 key members of the autism community (i.e., autistic youth with a history of suicidality, caregivers of autistic youth with a history of suicidality, autism specialist clinicians, ED clinicians) to inform the development of recommendations for modifying ED care for autistic patients, with a focus on suicide risk screening and management. <br><br>RESULTS: Participants reported on challenges they encountered receiving or providing care and/or recommendations for improving care. Participant perspectives were aligned, and four main categories emerged: accounting for autism features, connection and youth engagement in care, caregiver and family involvement, and service system issues. <br><br>CONCLUSION: As research continues in the development of autism-specific suicide risk assessment tools and management strategies, it is essential we better equip providers to address suicide risk in autistic patients, particularly in ED settings.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0162-3257",
doi="10.1007/s10803-024-06364-9",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10803-024-06364-9"
}