An Adolescent Has Recently Begun Doing Poorly in School and Has

question 4

Multiple Choice

An adolescent has recently begun doing poorly in school and has stopped participating in sports and other extracurricular activities. During the history interview, the adolescent reports feeling tired, having difficulty concentrating, and experiencing a loss of appetite for the past few weeks but cannot attribute these changes to any major life event. Which is an important next step in managing this patient?

• A) Administering a diagnostic rating scale for depression
• B) Considering a short-term trial of an antidepressant medication
• C) Determining suicidal ideation and risk of suicide
• D) Referring the adolescent to a mental health specialist

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Definitions:

Frontal Bone

The bone that forms the front part of the skull and the upper part of the eye sockets.

Ethmoid Bone

A complex structure located at the base of the skull, between the eyes and nasal cavities, contributing to the orbits and nasal septum.

Ewing Sarcoma

An uncommon form of cancer found in bones or the surrounding soft tissues, mainly impacting kids and young individuals.

Osteosarcoma

A type of bone cancer that typically starts in the long bones of the body, such as those in the arms or legs.