In toxicology assessment, which question is typically asked first?

• A. Intentional?
• B. How did you take it?
• C. How much did you take?
• D. What did you take?

Answer: (D)

In toxicology assessment, identifying the exact substance involved is the first priority. Knowing what was taken guides every subsequent decision—whether there’s an appropriate antidote, what decontamination steps to use, and what toxic effects to anticipate. Without knowing the toxin, you can’t tailor treatment or predict potential complications.

Once the substance is identified, you then gather details about exposure: how much was taken, how it was ingested or administered, and roughly when it occurred. These details help estimate the dose and timing, which are crucial for deciding on interventions and monitoring. Asking whether the exposure was intentional can also inform airway security, psychiatric considerations, and the overall risk assessment.