Moderately mentally retarded IQ is in the range of:

Appeared in: NVS- 2025

Explanation

The correct option identifies the IQ range for moderate mental retardation as 40–54.
This classification is based on a system where intelligence is measured with a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15 points.
In this system, moderate mental retardation falls approximately three to four standard deviations below the mean.
Individuals in this range typically have academic skills at an elementary level and require support for daily tasks.

Option A: The IQ range of 70–84 is classified as borderline intellectual functioning, which is a level above mild intellectual disability.
Option B: The IQ range of 25–39 corresponds to severe mental retardation. Individuals in this category have very limited communication and require significant support.
Option C: The IQ range of 55–69 is characteristic of mild mental retardation. This is the largest group, and individuals can often achieve social and vocational skills for self-maintenance.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of Intellectual Disability by IQ Range as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While IQ scores are a component of diagnosis, a nurse's assessment must focus on the individual's adaptive functioning—their ability to manage conceptual, social, and practical life skills.
Nurses play a key role in developing care plans that support independence, promote self-care skills, and ensure safety for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
What if? If a patient has an IQ of 45 but demonstrates strong practical skills and can live in a supervised group home, the nursing care plan would focus on vocational training and community integration, rather than just basic self-care, reflecting a strength-based approach.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of the classification of intellectual disability.
First, identify the key terms in the question: 'Moderately mentally retarded' and 'IQ range'.
Recall the standard IQ-based classifications for different levels of intellectual disability (mild, moderate, severe, profound).
Compare the recalled ranges with the given options.
Select the option that matches the IQ range for 'moderate' disability. Be aware that different classification systems exist, but the options provided will point to the intended system.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q76d505-_YpRH1isYyFl4o

E6 Kaplan Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry-2022 (pp 1-3768 of 3768) p. 311-313

E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 2 — Subpart A (pp 1-232 of 464) p. 82-84

Practise the full NVS- 2025

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.