Repeated/Recurrent episodes of poisoning may be an indication of an underlying problem. The patient's past history can provide valuable insights.
If a person presents with poisoning, injury or self-harm, then it can be helpful to take a careful history for:
(1) previous episodes of the same type of poisoning.
(2) previous episodes of different types of poisoning
(3) previous episodes of suicide attempts or self-harm
(4) previous history of manipulative behaviors or malingering
Recurrent or repeated poisoning may be accidental or intentional.
Accidental:
(1) occupational exposure: hazardous work environment
(2) hazardous home: poor control over access to toxins
(3) mental confusion
(4) environmental release
Intentional:
(1) suicidal intent
(2) malingering or manipulation
(3) homicide
Identification of a pattern over time can help guide an appropriate intervention.
