A nurse is counseling a family whose child has been diagnosed with Down syndrome. Which of the following is a common characteristic of Down syndrome?

Question

Question

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AIIMS NORCET 7 Prelims Memory Based Paper 2024

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Short stature and cognitive delays

Rationale:

Down syndrome, also known as trisomy 21, is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21. It is characterized by a variety of physical and cognitive features.
Individuals with Down syndrome often exhibit short stature and cognitive delays. These cognitive delays can range from mild to moderate intellectual disability. Physical growth is usually slower, and many children with Down syndrome are shorter than their peers.

Explanation of Other Options:

Long limbs and reduced muscle tone

Rationale: While reduced muscle tone (hypotonia) is a common characteristic of Down syndrome, long limbs are not. In fact, individuals with Down syndrome typically have shorter limbs.

High IQ and exceptional physical skills

Rationale: This option is incorrect because individuals with Down syndrome generally have intellectual disabilities and developmental delays. High IQ and exceptional physical skills are not characteristics associated with Down syndrome.

Lack of physical abnormalities

Rationale: Down syndrome is associated with various physical characteristics, such as a flat facial profile, upward slanting eyes, small ears, and a single deep crease across the center of the palm. Therefore, the statement about a lack of physical abnormalities is incorrect.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, the most accurate description of a common characteristic of Down syndrome is short stature and cognitive delays. These features are well-documented and widely recognized in individuals with this genetic disorder.