Adult Abdominal Emergencies

Question 1

Adult Abdominal Emergencies - Mandatory to obtain a 12-lead ECG in this patient group

Answer 1

> 35yo

Pain above the umbilicus

Question 2

Adult Abdominal Emergencies - Life threatening causes of abdominal pain

Answer 2

AAA
Peritonitis
Ectopic pregnancy
Uncontrolled GI bleed
Acute MI

Question 3

Adult Abdominal Emergencies - If BP < 90 mmhg treat with this protocol

Answer 3

Adult shock protocol

Question 4

Adult Abdominal Emergencies - in the presence of an internal hemorrhage avoid what?

Answer 4

Uncontrolled fluid resuscitation

Question 5

Adult Abdominal Emergencies - Life threatening cause acute coronary syndrome S/S

Answer 5

If pain above the umbilicus is present, consider ACS through assessment and if ACS is identified treat with the Adult Acute Coronary Syndrome

Question 6

Adult Abdominal Emergencies - Life threatening cause AAA S/S

Answer 6

“tearing” back or flank pain radiating through to the abdomen
hypotension
urge to defecate

Question 7

Adult Abdominal Emergencies - Assume every female of child bearing age could be?

Answer 7

Ectopic pregnancy

Question 8

Adult Abdominal Emergencies - Life threatening causes peritonitis S/S

Answer 8

slight tenderness that expands over time
rebound tenderness
abdominal guarding

Question 9

Adult Abdominal Emergencies - Uncontrolled hemorrhage DDx to consider

Answer 9

peptic ulcers
esophageal varices
Mallory-Weiss tears
diverticulosis
colon lesions
rectal lesions)