A patient with Intelligence Quotient (IQ) score 30 will be classified under which of the following category?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

KGMU Nursing Officer 2023 Memory-Based Previous Year Paper

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Severe mental retardation

Rationale:

An Intelligence Quotient (IQ) score is a standardized measure used to assess human intelligence. It is often used to classify intellectual disabilities into categories based on the individual's cognitive functioning and adaptability.
A patient with an IQ score of 30 falls into the category of severe intellectual disability (previously referred to as severe mental retardation). This category typically includes individuals with IQ scores ranging between 20 and 34.
People in this range often have very limited communication skills, require extensive support in daily living activities, and may have significant physical or neurological impairments. They may learn basic self-care and communication skills with intensive support and training.

Explanation of Other Options:

Mild mental retardation

Rationale: This category includes individuals with IQ scores between 50 and 70. People in this range can often live independently with minimal support, perform basic academic tasks, and hold jobs requiring routine skills. It does not apply to an IQ score of 30.

Moderate mental retardation

Rationale: This category is for individuals with IQ scores between 35 and 49. They can typically perform basic self-care tasks, communicate effectively, and engage in simple work activities under supervision. However, an IQ score of 30 falls below this range.

Profound mental retardation

Rationale: Individuals in this category have IQ scores below 20. They typically require constant care and supervision due to extremely limited cognitive and physical abilities. While an IQ score of 30 is low, it does not fall within this category.

Additional Information

The categorization of intellectual disabilities is important for tailoring education, therapy, and care to the individual's specific needs.
Intellectual disability is assessed not only using IQ scores but also by evaluating adaptive functioning, which includes daily living skills, social skills, and communication abilities.
The terminology and classifications of intellectual disabilities have evolved over time to adopt more respectful and inclusive language, replacing terms like "mental retardation" with "intellectual disability."

Conclusion:

An IQ score of 30 places a patient in the severe intellectual disability category. This classification helps in providing appropriate interventions and support to improve their quality of life and functioning.