Respiratory Therapist

Answers: A, B, C & D - In reference to occupational exposures, you should inquire about work history that involved a dusty or moldy environment, work performed around asbestos insulation, and if any work has been performed in a paint booth.

Jobs performed in a dusty or moldy place or with exposure are linked to conditions such as baker’s lung, farmer’s lung, or an exacerbation of existing COPD. Exposure to asbestos can result in asbestosis, mesothelioma, or lung cancer. Work performed in a paint booth without proper ventilation is a serious hazard to respiratory health and can increase the risk of COPD. Interviewing patient to inquire about such workplace exposures can be very helpful in the diagnosis and treatment of patient’s condition, whether acute or chronic.