CDPH Lead Inspector/Assessor California State Practice Exam

At what blood lead level (BLL) is a child considered lead poisoned?

1. BLL of 10-20μg/dL

2. BLL of 25-30μg/dL

3. BLL of 20-44μg/dL

4. BLL of 45μg/dL or higher

The correct answer is: BLL of 20-44μg/dL

A child is considered lead poisoned at a blood lead level (BLL) of 20-44μg/dL because this range indicates a significant exposure to lead, which can lead to serious health effects such as cognitive deficits, developmental delays, and other medical complications. Public health guidelines have established this range as a threshold where intervention is necessary to prevent further exposure and to address potential health risks. This specific range underscores the importance of early detection and intervention in children who show elevated levels of lead in their blood. When blood lead levels reach this point, it is typically recommended that healthcare practitioners conduct further assessments to understand the source of lead exposure and initiate appropriate treatment or management plans to mitigate harm. Levels outside this range, such as those indicated in other choices, do not meet the established criteria for diagnosing lead poisoning according to current standards. For instance, while a BLL of 45μg/dL or higher does indicate a severe level of lead exposure requiring immediate medical attention, it reflects a more extreme and acute situation than what is recognized at lower levels.