Which of the following disorders would a nurse classify as a neurodevelopmental disorder?

• A. Schizophrenia
• B. Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• C. Autism spectrum disorder
• D. Major depressive disorder

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of neurodevelopmental disorders. These are a group of conditions that typically manifest early in development, often before the child enters grade school, and are characterized by developmental deficits that produce impairments of personal, social, academic, or occupational functioning.
2. Step 2: Review the characteristics of each disorder listed: Schizophrenia is a psychotic disorder involving hallucinations and delusions; Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety-related disorder characterized by unwanted repetitive thoughts and behaviors; Major depressive disorder involves persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest.
3. Step 3: Recognize that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder because it involves early developmental deficits in social communication and interaction, along with restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior.
4. Step 4: Compare the timing and nature of symptoms: ASD symptoms appear in early childhood and affect developmental milestones, whereas the other disorders typically have later onset and different symptom profiles.
5. Step 5: Conclude that among the options, Autism Spectrum Disorder fits the criteria for a neurodevelopmental disorder, which is why a nurse would classify it as such.