A 12-year-old reports declining school performance but does not volunteer sadness. The practice has clinicians who can evaluate positive screens and

Question

A 12-year-old reports declining school performance but does not volunteer sadness. The practice has clinicians who can evaluate positive screens and arrange evidence-based treatment and follow-up. Which preventive action is best?

Accepted Answer

Use a validated depression screen and arrange diagnostic follow-up

Answer

Use an alcohol and drug screen as the mental-health assessment

Answer

Refer for psychotherapy before completing an initial depression assessment

Answer

Delay routine depression screening until the patient reaches adulthood

Answer

Screen for depression after a parent requests an evaluation

Adolescent depression screening — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

A 12-year-old reports declining school performance but does not volunteer sadness. The practice has clinicians who can evaluate positive screens and arrange evidence-based treatment and follow-up. Which preventive action is best?