CDDN CERTIFIED DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES NURSE EXAM QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS | VERIFIED AND DETAILED ANSWERS | GRADED A+ | LATEST 2026/2027 UPDATE.

CDDN CERTIFIED DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES NURSE EXAM QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS | VERIFIED AND DETAILED ANSWERS | GRADED A+ | LATEST 2026/2027 UPDATE. 1. Which of the following is the most common cause of developmental disabilities in children? A) Genetic syndromes B) Prenatal infections C) Premature birth D) Traumatic brain injury Answer: A) Genetic syndromes Rationale: Genetic syndromes, such as Down syndrome and Fragile X syndrome, are leading causes of developmental disabilities. Prenatal infections and premature birth contribute but are less frequent. 2. When caring for a patient with autism spectrum disorder, which strategy is most effective in reducing anxiety? A) Providing a highly stimulating environment B) Using clear, concise instructions and routines C) Ignoring repetitive behaviors D) Rapidly changing activities Answer: B) Using clear, concise instructions and routines Rationale: Predictable routines and clear instructions help patients with autism manage anxiety. 3. Which intervention is most appropriate for a patient with intellectual disability who demonstrates aggressive behavior? A) Immediate physical restraint B) Verbal de-escalation and calm communication C) Ignoring the behavior D) Punitive measures Answer: B) Verbal de-escalation and calm communication Rationale: Calm communication and de-escalation are first-line approaches. Restraints are only for immediate danger. 5. A nurse observes that a patient with cerebral palsy has increased muscle spasticity. Which intervention is appropriate? A) Encourage prolonged bed rest B) Perform passive range-of-motion exercises C) Avoid physical activity D) Apply ice packs to limbs Answer: B) Perform passive range-of-motion exercises Rationale: Passive exercises maintain joint mobility and reduce contractures. 6. Which of the following medications is commonly used to manage spasticity in patients with cerebral palsy? A) Diazepam B) Furosemide C) Metformin D) Albuterol Answer: A) Diazepam Rationale: Diazepam is a muscle relaxant that reduces spasticity. The others are not indicated for this purpose. 7. In assessing a patient with Down syndrome, which physical feature is commonly observed? A) Long limbs and narrow eyes B) Short stature, epicanthal folds, and hypotonia C) Tall stature and hypertonia D) Microcephaly with limb hypermobility Answer: B) Short stature, epicanthal folds, and hypotonia Rationale: These are classic physical features associated with Down syndrome. 8. Which intervention best supports communication for a nonverbal patient with developmental disabilities? A) Use complex medical terminology B) Provide communication boards or picture exchange systems C) Speak faster to encourage response D) Avoid eye contact Answer: B) Provide communication boards or picture exchange systems Rationale: AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) supports nonverbal patients’ communication. 9. When planning care for a patient with Fragile X syndrome, the nurse should consider that: A) Aggressive behavior is rare B) Anxiety and sensory sensitivities are common C) Intellectual disability does not occur D) Physical abnormalities are always absent Answer: B) Anxiety and sensory sensitivities are common Rationale: Fragile X syndrome often presents with behavioral challenges, anxiety, and sensory processing difficulties. 10. Which of the following is the most effective strategy for preventing aspiration in a patient with severe cerebral palsy? A) Feeding quickly to reduce mealtime length B) Upright positioning and small, controlled bites C) Encouraging rapid swallowing D) Avoiding all solid foods Answer: B) Upright positioning and small, controlled bites Rationale: Proper positioning and slow feeding reduce aspiration risk. 11. The nurse is caring for a patient with intellectual disability who refuses medication. What is the best approach? A) Force the medication B) Educate the patient and use supportive techniques C) Ignore the refusal D) Punish the patient Answer: B) Educate the patient and use supportive techniques Rationale: Patients with intellectual disabilities respond better to education, explanation, and support. 12. Which condition is a risk factor for the development of developmental disabilities in preterm infants? A) Full-term birth B) Neonatal hypoxia C) Exclusive breastfeeding D) Normal Apgar score Answer: B) Neonatal hypoxia Rationale: Oxygen deprivation during birth can cause brain injury leading to developmental delays. 13. Which of the following is an important consideration when administering medications to a patient with developmental disabilities? A) Patients always understand complex instructions B) Assess comprehension and provide clear, simple explanations C) Never involve caregivers D) Ignore potential side effects Answer: B) Assess comprehension and provide clear, simple explanations Rationale: Simplified communication ensures safe medication administration. 4. What is the primary purpose of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for a child with developmental disabilities? A) To provide a diagnosis B) To ensure individualized support and educational goals C) To limit parental involvement D) To prescribe medication Answer: B) To ensure individualized support and educational goals Rationale: IEPs outline tailored educational strategies and goals for children with developmental disabilities. 14. In patients with developmental disabilities, which intervention helps reduce challenging behaviors? A) Ignoring routines B) Establishing consistent daily routines C) Using punishment frequently D) Randomly changing environments Answer: B) Establishing consistent daily routines Rationale: Consistency reduces anxiety and behavioral outbursts. 15. Which behavior is characteristic of autism spectrum disorder? A) Strong eye contact and social reciprocity B) Repetitive movements and difficulty with social interaction C) Delayed growth only D) No need for routine Answer: B) Repetitive movements and difficulty with social interaction Rationale: Core features of autism include repetitive behaviors and impaired social communication.