A postgraduate trainee administers the Denver II test to a 3-year-old and records a result of "suspect" on the scoring sheet. What is the most appropriate interpretation and next step?
- A Diagnose global developmental delay and start special education
- B Reassure the parents, as the Denver II result is diagnostic
- C Refer for comprehensive multidisciplinary developmental assessment ✓
- D Repeat the same test yearly without any further action
Correct answer: C. Refer for comprehensive multidisciplinary developmental assessment
Explanation
The Denver II is a standardized screening instrument, not a diagnostic tool. A screen classified as suspect or untestable identifies a child who needs definitive evaluation by formal psychometric testing and multidisciplinary assessment, not a diagnosis. Treating the screen as diagnostic, or reassuring parents because the tool looks authoritative, are both errors that delay intervention. Repeating the same screening test annually without referral wastes the window for early therapy, which improves outcomes in developmental delay.
Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.