Which of the following is the primary method used during a scoliosis screening to detect abnormal spinal curvature?

Choice A rationale

Increased energy levels are typically not a symptom of depression in younger children. Instead, depression often manifests as a reduction in energy, leading to fatigue, lethargy, and a general lack of motivation or interest in previously enjoyed activities. This shift in energy levels can significantly impact daily functioning and play.

Choice B rationale

Decreased irritability is not a common symptom of depression in younger children. On the contrary, young children experiencing depression often exhibit heightened irritability, anger outbursts, and defiance as external manifestations of their internal distress and sadness. This can lead to difficulties in social interactions.

Choice C rationale

Improved concentration is not a symptom of depression; rather, impaired concentration and difficulty focusing are hallmark signs. Children with depression often struggle with academic tasks, forgetfulness, and an inability to sustain attention, leading to a decline in school performance and frustration.

Choice D rationale

Changes in appetite and sleep patterns are common neurovegetative symptoms of depression across all age groups, including younger children. This can present as increased or decreased appetite, leading to weight changes, and difficulties with sleep, such as insomnia, hypersomnia, or frequent awakenings, disrupting daily routines.

Choice A rationale

Notifying the healthcare provider immediately and requesting antibiotics is premature. Slight redness around pin sites without drainage or pain, and stable vital signs, does not immediately indicate a significant infection requiring systemic antibiotics. This initial finding warrants a thorough assessment and local care before escalating to medical intervention.

Choice B rationale

Removing crusting around pin sites can be detrimental. Crusting can serve as a protective barrier. Aggressive removal can introduce bacteria into the pin tract, increasing the risk of infection, or cause unnecessary pain and trauma to the delicate healing tissue. Gentle cleansing is preferred over forceful removal of adherent crusts.

Choice C rationale

Cleansing the pin sites using sterile saline and assessing for signs of infection is the best immediate action. Slight redness without drainage is often a normal inflammatory response to the foreign body and movement. Sterile saline effectively cleanses without irritating the tissue, and continued assessment helps monitor for evolving signs like increased redness, purulent drainage, or fever.

Choice D rationale

Documenting findings as normal and continuing routine assessments is insufficient. While slight redness can be normal, it still requires diligent monitoring and appropriate pin site care to prevent potential complications. Assuming normalcy without active intervention like cleansing could allow a minor irritation to progress to a more serious infection. .