A nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about the effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACES) across the lifespan. Which of the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about the effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACES) across the lifespan. Which of the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding of the teaching? "ACES have the same effect on adults and adolescents.” "Adults are more at risk for depression, while adolescents are more at risk for obesity." "Adults are at a higher risk for cancer and COPD, while adolescents are more at risk for attempted suicide." "The effects of ACEs affect adolescents, but they do not affect them once they reach adulthood." Correct answer: C A. "ACES have the same effect on adults and adolescents.": The effects of adverse childhood experiences vary across the lifespan. Adolescents may exhibit more immediate behavioral and mental health risks, whereas adults are more likely to develop chronic physical conditions. B. "Adults are more at risk for depression, while adolescents are more at risk for obesity.": While both age groups can experience mental and physical health consequences, this statement misrepresents the evidence; adults can also have obesity risk, and adolescents can experience depression. C. "Adults are at a higher risk for cancer and COPD, while adolescents are more at risk for attempted suicide.": This accurately reflects research showing that ACEs contribute to long-term physical health risks in adults, such as cancer and COPD, and acute mental health risks in adolescents, including suicidal behavior. D. "The effects of ACEs affect adolescents, but they do not affect them once they reach adulthood.": This is incorrect because the impacts of ACEs can persist into adulthood, influencing both mental and physical health outcomes throughout the lifespan.