When interacting with a parent at her child’s well visit, which statement by the mother would be an indication for a speech referral? Select all that apply
Failure to speak any meaningful words spontaneously in a 2-year-old child
Using different words or nicknames for certain people
Failure to use sentences of three or more words in a 3-year-old
Stuttering or any other type of dysfluency
Omission of word endings (e.g., plurals, tenses of verbs) in a 3-year-old
Frequent omission of final consonants in a 3-year-old
Correct Answer : A,C,D,E
Speech and language milestones are critical indicators of a child’s development. Certain delays or persistent speech difficulties are red flags that warrant referral for a speech and language evaluation.
Rationale for correct answers:
A. Failure to speak any meaningful words at 2 years old is a developmental red flag. By this age, children should be using several single words spontaneously. Lack of expressive language warrants referral.
C. Failure to use sentences of three or more words by 3 years old indicates a possible expressive language delay. Most 3-year-olds should be able to form short, understandable sentences.
D. Stuttering or dysfluency can be normal in preschoolers (ages 2–5), especially during language bursts. However, persistent or significant dysfluency (such as repeating sounds, words, or phrases) can indicate a need for evaluation.
E. Frequent omission of final consonants in a 3-year-old is concerning. While some articulation errors are normal, consistent omission of final consonants after age 3 is not developmentally appropriate.
Rationale for incorrect answers:
B. Using different words or nicknames for people is typical of normal language development and shows creativity in communication.
E. Omission of word endings such as plurals or verb tenses may still be developmentally normal at 3 years old. Many children master these grammatical rules closer to age D.
Take home points
- By age 2: Child should use at least 50 words and begin combining words.
- By age 3: Child should form 3–4 word sentences and be mostly understandable to familiar listeners.
- Speech referral red flags: no meaningful words at 2, no short sentences at 3, and persistent articulation errors (e.g., omitting final consonants).
- Some errors (stuttering, word endings) are developmentally normal at 3 years.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
When a parent expresses concern that their child is not acting like or responding the same as a sibling, the nurse should perform a thorough developmental assessment while also supporting the parent emotionally. The focus is on assessing possible developmental issues while reassuring the parent appropriately.
Rationale for correct answers:
A. Assessment for dysmorphic syndromes is important if developmental differences are noted. Conditions such as congenital anomalies or microcephaly may underlie developmental delays.
B. Inquiring about temperament such as irritability and lethargy helps identify possible neurological, metabolic, or developmental issues influencing the child’s behavior.
C. Explaining that all children are different is key for parental reassurance. Comparison with siblings can create unnecessary anxiety or pressure; each child develops uniquely.
D. Noting language development appropriate for the child’s age is a standard part of developmental assessment and can reveal early indicators of delays or disorders.
Rationale for incorrect answer:
E. Meeting siblings to assess similarities is not necessary for evaluating developmental differences. Assessment should be focused on the individual child’s growth and milestones, not comparisons to family traits.
Take home points
- Parental concerns about differences between siblings should always be taken seriously.
- A thorough developmental assessment such as growth, language, behavior, and neurological signs is essential.
- Normalize differences while carefully evaluating for potential disorders.
- Avoid direct sibling comparisons, each child has unique developmental patterns.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and processes sensory information. The term “spectrum” reflects the wide range of symptoms, abilities, and challenges that individuals with autism may experience.
Rationale for correct answer:
A. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) thrive on structure, predictability, and routine. A strict, consistent schedule for treatments, meals, and daily care reduces anxiety and behavioral outbursts. Sudden changes can be very distressing for children with ASD.
Rationale for Incorrect Answers:
B. Children with ASD may have difficulty with social interactions and overstimulation in busy playrooms. Play therapy can be helpful, but it should be individualized and not forced.
C. Keeping all of the room lights on throughout the night is not appropriate; it may worsen sleep disturbances is already common in autism and cause sensory overload.
D. Providing the child with sugar-free juice at snack time is not specific to autism management. Unless the child has diabetes or dental concerns, this intervention is not related to autism care.
Take home points
- Nursing care for children with autism should prioritize:
- Consistency and routine in care.
- Minimizing sensory overload (noise, light, crowds).
- Respecting communication styles (use of pictures, simple words, or devices).
- Creating a safe, structured environment to reduce anxiety.
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