Behavior-analytic support for needle-related hospital visits for autistic patients

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This interventional program uses a single-subject design to deliver a targeted behavior-analytic treatment package during both simulated and actual needle procedures. Each participant serves as their own control, with clinicians tracking changes in challenging behaviors and compliance over repeated sessions. The intervention includes differential reinforcement of alternative behaviors and simulation-based practice to build tolerance and skills. Caregiver and patient acceptability (social validity) will also be measured to capture real-world acceptability of the approach.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Caregivers of autistic patients who have been historically engaged in challenging behaviors during needle-related procedures at a Boston Medical Center (BMC)
* Established BMC autistic patients (ages 3+) who have a history of engaging in challenging behaviors in the presence of needle-related medical stimuli.
* BMC Medical Providers (i.e., phlebotomists, medical doctors, registered nurses, certified nursing assistants, registered dieticians, and medical assistants) who either: 1) order needle-related medical procedures for participants to be conducted during procedure visits and/or 2) are present to conduct the ordered procedure
* English speaking participants

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients who are unable to visit BMC a minimum of 2 times per month
* No history of challenging behaviors in medical appointments involving the presentation of needle(s)
* Patients and caregivers who do not speak English or are unable to utilize interpreter services to complete assessments and surveys

Where it's running

• Boston Medical Center
  Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Jacqueline McKendry, MS BCBA LABA — Boston Medical Center
• Study coordinator: Jacqueline McKendry, MS BCBA LABA
• Email: jacqueline.mckendry@bmc.org
• Phone: 617 414 3874

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.