2024 15th Annual NUBE Conference

Objective: This scoping review aims to summarize the current state of research literature on the management of agitation and aggression in the care of youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the emergency department (ED). Clinical guidance for the management of agitation in this patient population will be outlined.

Method: This study used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) extension for scoping reviews searching PubMed and PsycINFO databases (May 1, 2013 through July 24, 2024) for studies that reported management of agitation or aggression in the care of youth with ASD in the ED.

Results: Management of agitation and aggression in the care of youth with ASD in the emergency department has been documented. Approaches include beginning with a rapid assessment and functional behavioral assessment. There exists a typical differential diagnosis followed by non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic treatment strategies. Restraint and inpatient psychiatric hospitalization are discussed.

Conclusion: There exists a growing literature on the management of agitation and aggression in the care of youth with ASD in the ED. Recommendations for the management of this patient population in the ED are outlined.

Learning Objectives:

Attendees will understand the current evidence base for the management of agitation of pediatric patients with ASD in the ED.

Attendees will understand clinical recommendations for the management of agitation in pediatric patients with ASD.

Attendees will learn how to integrate both non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic strategies for managing agitation in pediatric patients with ASD in the ED.