What questions might you explore with the patient?

Let’s consider the questions you should explore with the patient in order to diagnose the respiratory problem.

If she coughs – how long has it been going on, does she produce any phlegm and is there any blood?

• Acute cough – may be categorised as less than 3 weeks
• Sub-acute cough – may be categorised as 3-8 weeks
• Chronic cough – may be categorised as more than 8 weeks source

(Based on National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance)

• Does she currently smoke tobacco? If yes, how many cigarettes a day? What type (homemade or bought?) If she doesn’t, does anyone else in her dormitory or factory smoke?
• Where does she live in Vellore – in an urban or rural location?
• What is the quality of the living conditions?
• Is biomass fuel (such as wood) used daily for cooking or heating?
• Has there been any contact with unwell family, friends or colleagues?
• What does her job involve – are there any occupational exposures?
• Has she had any other exposure to environmental hazards such as silica or other airborne substances?
• Has she travelled recently?