A 31-year-old woman presents to the PMHNP for a regular medication management appointment. While there, she mentions concerns that her 16-month-old son might have autism, and she asks the nurse practitioner how to have him evaluated for the condition. Which of the following is the most appropriate response?
“He is much too young to be concerned about that now. Screening for autism doesn’t begin until after age 24 months.”
“The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children receive autism-specific screening at age 18 and 24 months. These screenings can occur at your child’s well visits.”
“If there is no significant family history of autism, it is unlikely your son has autism. I know you are concerned, but more than likely, he is fine.”
“Your pediatrician should have already evaluated him for autism at a well visit. If the physician was concerned, he would have let you know.”
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because autism-specific screening is recommended to begin as early as 18 months. Waiting until after 24 months could delay early identification and intervention, which are crucial for improving developmental outcomes.
Choice B reason: This is correct. Evidence-based guidelines recommend universal autism screening at 18 and 24 months during routine pediatric visits. Early identification allows for timely referral to developmental services and behavioral interventions that significantly improve outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorder.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because autism can occur regardless of family history. Relying solely on family history risks missing early signs in children without a known familial predisposition.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect because pediatricians may not always identify subtle signs of autism during routine well visits. Proactive screening at recommended ages ensures that potential developmental concerns are systematically assessed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: ADHD primarily affects attention and impulse control, not involuntary motor or vocal tics.
Choice B reason: Stuttering involves disruptions in speech fluency but does not include motor tics such as blinking or shoulder shrugging.
Choice C reason: Oppositional defiant disorder is characterized by defiant and argumentative behavior, not involuntary tics.
Choice D reason: Tourette syndrome is characterized by multiple motor tics and at least one vocal tic, which may include blinking, shoulder shrugging, and throat clearing, consistent with the patient’s presentation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: This response is overly simplistic and uses the word "cheating," which may sound accusatory and does not accurately explain the clinical rationale. The ADOS aims to assess a child's independent social, communicative, and behavioral functioning, not to catch parents assisting. Using such terminology may increase parental anxiety and reduce cooperation.
Choice B reason: This is the correct response because it clearly explains that the assessment's purpose is to observe the child’s behavior without parental influence. Parental presence can inadvertently alter a child's responses or behavior, potentially masking deficits in social communication or repetitive behaviors that are critical for the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. The phrasing reassures parents while providing a clear professional rationale.
Choice C reason: While the test may indeed be challenging, emphasizing the child’s potential inability to complete tasks is not the appropriate rationale for asking parents to leave. This approach may unnecessarily alarm parents and distract from the primary reason for their absence, which is to ensure accurate and unbiased assessment of the child.
Choice D reason: This answer incorrectly assumes that children’s distress is solely due to parental presence. While some children may behave differently with parents around, the main rationale for asking parents to leave is to obtain an independent assessment of the child's skills and behaviors, not simply to prevent emotional upset.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.