A 22-year-old man presents to ED after taking an unknown quantity of paracetamol tablets 6 hours ago in an impulsive overdose. He is currently asympto...

Question

A 22-year-old man presents to ED after taking an unknown quantity of paracetamol tablets 6 hours ago in an impulsive overdose. He is currently asymptomatic. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Measure serum paracetamol concentration and plot on the nomogram to determine need for N-acetylcysteine

Answer

Reassure and discharge because he is asymptomatic

Answer

Give activated charcoal only and send home

Answer

Start haemodialysis immediately

Answer

Observe without blood tests for 24 hours

au-acem MCQ (SBA): Paracetamol poisoning

A 22-year-old man presents to ED after taking an unknown quantity of paracetamol tablets 6 hours ago in an impulsive overdose. He is currently asymptomatic. What is the most appropriate next step?