Question

a nurse is assessing a child who has attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (adhd). which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

aversion to being touched
childhood obesity
impulsive actions
lethargy

Explanation:

Analyze the core features of ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These core features manifest in various behavioral signs during clinical assessments.

Evaluate the clinical options

• Aversion to being touched: This is more characteristic of sensory processing issues or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) rather than a primary feature of ADHD.
• Childhood obesity: While there can be secondary lifestyle associations, obesity is not a direct diagnostic clinical manifestation or assessment finding for ADHD.
• Impulsive actions: Impulsivity is one of the three primary diagnostic pillars of ADHD (alongside inattention and hyperactivity). Examples include interrupting others, difficulty waiting turns, and acting without thinking.
• Lethargy: Children with ADHD typically exhibit high levels of physical activity (hyperactivity) rather than lethargy, which is a state of drowsiness or lack of energy.

Determine the correct finding

Based on the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, impulsivity is a hallmark clinical manifestation. Therefore, "Impulsive actions" is the expected finding during a nurse's assessment of a child with ADHD.

Answer:

• Aversion to being touched
• Childhood obesity
• Impulsive actions (Correct answer)
• Lethargy