What is the recommended action if a child tests over the CDC action level for lead?

When a child tests above the CDC action level for lead, the recommended action is to implement environmental interventions and follow up with medical care. This is crucial because elevated blood lead levels can have serious health implications, including cognitive and developmental delays, behavioral issues, and physical health problems.

Implementing environmental interventions involves identifying and mitigating sources of lead exposure in the child's environment, such as lead-based paint, contaminated soil, or plumbing with lead pipes. Addressing these environmental risks helps reduce further exposure to lead, which is critical for the child's health.

Following up with medical care is equally important. This may include consulting with healthcare professionals who can monitor the child's health, provide resources for treatment if necessary, and conduct follow-up testing to ensure that lead levels are decreasing. Effective management through both environmental changes and medical support is essential in safeguarding a child's well-being and ensuring healthy development.

Other options like ignoring the results, solely increasing the child's iron intake, or simply re-testing in a year do not adequately address the immediate risks associated with high lead levels and can lead to continued exposure and potential harm to the child.