Stabilizing Behavioral Changes and Preventing Readmission in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder Through Transitional Support Strategies

Abstract

Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often experience behavioral challenges requiring coordinated and sustained inpatient support. This practicum, conducted at the Neurodiagnostic Institute (NDI) in partnership with HANDS in Autism®, focused on evaluating stabilization outcomes and the effectiveness of post-discharge planning in preventing readmissions. Electronic health record data were extracted from Cerner and categorized using the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC) and Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scales. The data were further aligned with moderator variables to examine behavioral outcomes across inpatient care and post-discharge periods. Tools including R, REDCap, and Excel were used to manage, code, and visualize the data. Findings revealed patterns in behavior change trajectories that may inform individualized care planning and system-wide improvements. This analysis supports the use of evidence-based behavioral classifications and quantitative tracking to enhance continuity of care, reduce readmissions, and improve long-term outcomes for individuals with ASD in psychiatric inpatient settings.