If scoliosis is suspected after initial screening, which action is most appropriate next?

• A. Refer the parents to the child's healthcare provider to request an X-ray or MRI
• B. Prescribe physical therapy
• C. Schedule a dentist appointment
• D. Reassure and discharge

Answer: (A)

When scoliosis is suspected after screening, the next step is to arrange a medical evaluation with imaging to confirm the diagnosis and determine how severe the curvature is. An X-ray of the spine is the standard test to measure the Cobb angle, which guides whether to observe, brace, or consider referral for surgery. This step ensures an accurate assessment before any treatment plan is begun. Other options don’t establish diagnosis or inform severity: physical therapy can help with symptoms or function later, but it isn’t a confirmatory test; a dentist appointment is not related to spine issues; and simply reassuring and discharging without imaging could miss a progressive curve needing monitoring or intervention. If red flags or atypical signs appear, MRI may be considered, but the typical next move is medical evaluation with spinal imaging.