The RN identified all the correct alarms upon arriving at Mrs. A’s home. For example, her keen interest in the local gas company that emitted a faint scent of rotten eggs is a clear identification of possible sources of mercaptan. Additionally, the identification of carbon monoxide gas leak and a leaky faucet that drips into the bathroom within the home depicted a potential source of mold. Finally, the RN identified another vital alarm, the unsealed cracks appearing in the cement basement floor, which might be the potential inlets for radon gas (Barnes et al., 2010). All the alarms existed in incorrect locations due to their potential health hazards associated with poor indoor air quality. The health condition of Mrs. A and her family could worsen because all the detrimental alarms had not been replaced except the faucet.
Healthcare professionals can check for radon by assessing cracks in the basement floor and walls of homes. However, radon testing and detection kits are useful in screening the home for radon. Performing a health assessment can as well help in revealing the presence of radon, especially when the family show increased respiratory rates, rhinitis in children, and flu (Barnes et al., 2010). And because I hail from Illinois, I am exposed to higher levels of radon gas as compared to those residing in Chicago.
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Notably, the information herein is quite crucial since knowing where you come from in the United States will help in developing strategies towards resisting radon. For example, individuals from California, Maryland, Oregon, and Minnesota should adhere to the radon-resistant new construction guidelines to avoid possible risks. Generally, an environmental health assessment is an important aspect that nurses should comply with to protect children’s health (Barnes et al., 2010).
Reference
Barnes, G., et al. (2010). Incorporating Environmental Health into Nursing Practice: A Case Study on Indoor Air Quality . Pediatric Nurse (36), pp. 33-40. http://pediatricnursing.net/ce/2012/article36033052.pdf