A school nurse is providing care to an adolescent who reports they are having difficulty focusing and sitting still in class. Which of the following screening considerations should the nurse identify as important for diagnosing ADHD in the adolescent?
The adolescent should be evaluated for ADHD symptoms that occur in more than one setting over a period of at least six months.
If the adolescent's grades are good, we can rule out ADHD as a possible diagnosis."
Screening for ADHD is most effective when we focus solely on the adolescent's behavior in the classroom.
Since adolescents can be less hyperactive than younger children, we don't consider hyperactivity as a criterion in this age group.
The Correct Answer is A
A. ADHD diagnosis requires that symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity be present in more than one setting (e.g., home, school, social situations) and persist for at least six months, ensuring that behaviors are consistent and not situational.
B. Good academic performance does not rule out ADHD; some adolescents may compensate for symptoms through intelligence, support, or coping strategies, so ADHD can still be present despite satisfactory grades.
C. Focusing only on classroom behavior is insufficient, as ADHD symptoms must be evident across multiple settings to meet diagnostic criteria.
D. While hyperactivity may decrease with age, it remains a relevant criterion for diagnosis. Symptoms may manifest as restlessness or difficulty engaging in quiet activities rather than overt hyperactivity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Interrupting the client disrupts the flow of communication and conveys disinterest; active listening requires allowing the client to express thoughts fully.
B. Showing excessive emotion may distract from the client’s disclosure or make the client feel guilty; active listening emphasizes empathy without projecting personal feelings.
C. Maintaining appropriate eye contact is important; minimizing eye contact can signal disinterest or avoidance.
D. Avoiding looking at other clients helps the nurse focus attention entirely on the client, demonstrating respect and engagement, which are key components of active listening.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Poor concentration is associated with mild to moderate anxiety, not panic-level anxiety.
B. Shakiness is a manifestation of mild to moderate anxiety or physiological stress, rather than the extreme symptoms seen in panic-level anxiety.
C. Voice tremors are typical of moderate anxiety or nervousness, not the severe, overwhelming symptoms of panic.
D. Depersonalization (a feeling of being detached from oneself) is a hallmark of panic-level anxiety, where the client may feel unreal, disconnected, or as if they are outside their body, reflecting the extreme intensity of the anxiety and impaired reality perception
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