Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

Which question should a nurse ask during the first phase of a risk assessment?

1. Has the chemical been released into the environment?

2. How much and by which route of entry can the chemical enter the body?

3. Is the chemical known to be associated with a negative health effect?

4. What is the prediction for potential harm?

The correct answer is: Is the chemical known to be associated with a negative health effect?

During the first phase of a risk assessment, it is crucial for the nurse to gather preliminary information about potential hazards. Asking whether the chemical is known to be associated with a negative health effect is fundamental to this initial evaluation. This question allows the nurse to ascertain the nature of the chemical's toxicity and its potential impact on health even before any specific exposure data is collected. Understanding the known health effects helps prioritize further investigation into exposure levels and routes of entry. It lays the groundwork for deciding on the best course of action to protect individuals or populations potentially at risk. By anchoring the assessment in established scientific knowledge of the chemical's harmful associations, the nurse can more effectively formulate follow-up questions and interventions that address risk management and necessary public health actions.