What is the process called for testing children to determine if they have elevated blood lead levels?

The correct term for testing children to determine if they have elevated blood lead levels is "screening." Screening refers to the initial process of identifying individuals who may have elevated blood lead levels, typically through blood tests. This process is crucial because it helps pinpoint children who require further assessment or intervention to mitigate potential lead exposure.

Screening is generally performed at specific ages or under certain conditions, such as living in high-risk environments, to ensure that at-risk populations are identified promptly. The goal of screening is to prevent lead poisoning by enabling early detection and appropriate follow-up care.

While assessment, evaluation, and testing are related concepts in the context of lead exposure, they serve different purposes. Assessment typically refers to a more comprehensive evaluation of potential lead exposure risks, while evaluation may involve a broader review of medical history and environmental factors. Testing, on the other hand, may imply the actual laboratory analysis of blood samples but is not the term used for the overall process used to identify children at risk. Thus, "screening" specifically captures the essence of early detection efforts aimed at reducing the risk of lead poisoning in children.