Author(s): Cheryl A.Glass
The Adult Risk Assessment Form (Exhibit 2.1) should be used for all adult patients to evaluate a patients risk for particular diseases. The practitioner should interview the patient, assessing for the risk factors listed on the Risk Assessment Form. The family history of first-degree relatives (parents, siblings, and children) should also be discussed, because many diseases are related to genetic factors. Keep a copy of the Risk Assessment Form in the front of the patients chart, and update yearly or as needed. When complete, this tool can guide the practitioner in determining the assessment needs of each patient. If using electronic medical records, a special section should be identified for risk assessment.