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Global developmental delay — MCCQE Part 1 MCQ

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HardDevelopmental DelayGlobal developmental delayMCCQE Part 1

A 20-month-old cannot walk independently, has few words and delayed fine motor skills, with no regression. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step?

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Correct answer: DArrange developmental assessment, hearing and vision testing, and early intervention referral

Arrange developmental assessment, hearing and vision testing, and early intervention referral is the single best answer because the age, timing, examination findings and investigations in the vignette fit Global developmental delay better than the alternatives. The most tempting distractor is less appropriate because it either treats a neighbouring presentation, delays a time-critical intervention, or ignores a key discriminator in the stem. The remaining options are suboptimal because they would miss the diagnosis, use an investigation or treatment in the wrong sequence, or fail to address safety and follow-up. Canadian practice should be anchored to CPS developmental delay guidance, with attention to acuity, safety-netting and local provincial pathways.

Reference: CPS developmental delay guidance