Environmental History

After establishing the chief complaint and history of present illness, there are screening questions that should be asked to elucidate the role of environmental toxins in the presenting condition. Poisonings may mimic conditions of other etiology. You need to know the environmental health history to diagnose the case.

Screening Questions for Environmental Exposures (should be asked in most cases):

• Do you think the child’s health problems are related to the home, daycare, school, or other location?
• Has there been any exposure to pesticides, solvents or other chemicals, dusts, fumes, radiation, or loud noise?
• What kind of work do the parents or other household members engage in?

Detailed Environmental History (should be asked when environmental etiology is suspected):

1. Do you live next to or near an industrial plant, commercial business, dump site,
   or nonresidential property?
2. Which of the following do you have in your home? Please circle all that apply.

   Air conditioner	air purifier	central heating (gas or oil)
   Gas stove	electric stove	fireplace
   Wood stove	humidifier

3. Have you recently acquired new furniture or carpet, refinished furniture or
   remodeled your home?
4. Have you weatherized your home recently?
5. Are pesticides or herbicides (bug or week killers, flea and tick sprays, collars,
   powders, or shampoos) used in your home or garden or on pets?
6. Do you (or any household member) have a hobby or a craft?
7. Do you work on your car?
8. Have you ever changed your residence because of a health problem?
9. Does your drinking water come from a private will, city water supply,
   or grocery store?
10. Approximately what year was your home built? _____________