Abdominal Pain Red Flags (to finish)

Question 1

What is the process for any presentation of acute abdominal pain?

Answer 1

ALL acute abdominal pain patients must be referred - either to a GP or to the emergency room, depending on the presence of red flags and risk factors.

Question 2

Which red flags in an acute abdominal pain patient warrant an immediate referral to the emergency room rather than a referral to a GP?

Answer 2

1. Populations - over 65, pregnancy, history of abdominal surgery, multiple co-morbidities, any CVD pathology, immunocompromised, history of alcohol or substance abuse
2. Any SSX of infection - fever, sweats / chills, malaise, abdo swelling
3. Any CVD SSX
4. Any respiratory SSX
5. Any neuro or mental state changes