What may happen if the HGN test is conducted without proper precautions?

When the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test is conducted without proper precautions, the results may indeed be compromised due to safety issues. Conducting the test in a controlled environment is essential to avoid distractions and ensure the participant's safety. For instance, if the subject feels unstable or is subjected to potential hazards, this can affect their ability to respond accurately, leading to unreliable results. Proper caution can also involve ensuring that the environment is suitable for the test, without any interfering stimuli that could cause confusion or bias in the subject's performance. When these precautions are disregarded, it heightens the risk of misinterpretation of the subject's behavior and eye movements, which are critical for accurately assessing potential impairment.