Which of the following factors should be assessed for external safety risks?

Assessing the home environment is crucial in identifying external safety risks because it encompasses various elements that can pose dangers to the patient. Factors such as the presence of hazardous materials, structural safety, accessibility (including stairs, walkways, and lighting), and potential exposure to environmental toxins all play a critical role in patient safety. Understanding the home setting allows healthcare providers to identify risks that could lead to falls, accidents, or other health hazards.

In contrast, vital signs primarily reflect the patient's physiological status at a moment in time and do not directly indicate external safety conditions. Patient history offers valuable insights into past medical conditions and lifestyle factors but may not capture current environmental risks. Lab values provide important information regarding the patient’s current health status but likewise do not address external safety concerns that could arise from the surroundings. Therefore, focusing on the home environment is essential for a comprehensive assessment of external safety risks.