Which of the following is a biological finding in patients with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?
Reduced thalamic volume
Decreased slow-wave activity on electroencephalogram
Reduced total brain volume on magnetic resonance imaging
Early posterior-to-anterior cortical maturation
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Although structural imaging may show small variations in multiple regions, reduced thalamic volume alone is not consistently observed or diagnostic in ADHD.
Choice B reason: EEG findings in ADHD typically show increased, not decreased, slow-wave activity (especially theta waves), reflecting cortical underarousal. Therefore, this option is inaccurate.
Choice C reason: Reduced total brain volume is a consistent biological finding in ADHD. Neuroimaging studies show that children and adults with ADHD tend to have smaller total brain volume, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, and cerebellum. These differences reflect delayed cortical maturation and reduced neural connectivity, which underlie impaired executive functioning, attention control, and impulse regulation.
Choice D reason: ADHD is associated with delayed cortical maturation rather than early maturation. The developmental lag particularly affects the prefrontal regions involved in planning, inhibition, and working memory.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Discontinuing an antidepressant after only two weeks with minimal improvement is premature; SSRIs often require 4–6 weeks for full efficacy.
Choice B reason: Making no changes is appropriate at this stage, as early treatment response is modest. The clinician should continue monitoring and reassess after sufficient treatment duration.
Choice C reason: Adding an augmenting agent is not indicated yet, given the patient has only had two weeks of therapy and lacks significant side effects.
Choice D reason: Switching antidepressants is premature at this early stage of treatment; efficacy assessment requires adequate duration.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Low self-esteem is commonly associated with social anxiety disorder, contributing to excessive fear of negative evaluation.
Choice B reason: Sensitivity to rejection is typical in social anxiety disorder and may drive avoidance of social situations.
Choice C reason: Hypersensitivity to criticism is characteristic of social anxiety disorder, reinforcing fear and avoidance of social interactions.
Choice D reason: Social anxiety disorder does not typically resolve in the presence of a trusted companion; anxiety may persist regardless of supportive presence. Therefore, decreased anxiety with companionship is not a defining feature.
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.
