A 16-Year-Old Boy Arrives at the Office for a Well-Child

A 16-year-old boy arrives at the office for a well-child check-up. The patient has no medical history but reports a lack of appetite and a weight loss of 2.3 kg (5 lb) . He just stopped playing soccer owing to a lack of desire. The patient is also concerned about his grades since he struggles to stay focused in class and concentrate on his assignments after school. Despite sleeping 10 hours a night and taking midday naps when he comes home, he is exhausted. "My parents try to be sympathetic, but everything they say these days grates on my nerves," the patient adds. He has had a few drinks and used marijuana at parties, but he does not use other substances. The vital indicators are within normal ranges. Physical examination is unremarkable.  Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management of this patient?

A) Administer an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder rating scale
B) Ask to speak with the patient's parents
C) Check complete blood count
D) Check thyroid function
E) Inquire about suicidal thoughts
F) Obtain a urine drug screen

Correct Answer:

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