Occupational History

If any suspicious information is obtained in the routine interview, the physician should obtain a more detailed history. Information on duration and intensity of exposure is important. It is important to learn how the patient worked with the suspected toxin and to consider how he or she may have absorbed the material. Information is needed on any respirators or protective clothing the patient may have worn. Phillip J. Landrigan, MD, MSc, Dean B. Baker, MD, MPH. The Recognition and Control of Occupational Disease, JAMA, August 7, 1991, p. 679.