Which of the following best describes waived tests under CLIA?

Waived tests under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) are specifically designed to be simple and carry a minimal risk of an incorrect result. These tests are considered to have the lowest complexity level due to their straightforward nature and the ease of their performance. They are often used in point-of-care settings and are intended to enhance access to testing while ensuring that the public is not exposed to high-risk scenarios due to testing errors.

Choosing the option that indicates tests with minimal risk to public health captures the essence of waived tests, which are not only user-friendly but also designed to minimize potential harm. Such tests commonly include things like urine pregnancy tests and glucose monitoring devices, which can reliably deliver results without requiring extensive training or specialized laboratory environments.

The other options relate to characteristics that do not align with the nature of waived tests. Tests requiring extensive training would fall into higher complexity categories, while tests with the highest complexity level involve extensive protocols and need skilled personnel. Tests performed solely in research settings also do not fit with the concept of waived tests, as these are meant for routine clinical use rather than specialized research contexts.