Question

A 29-year-old man presents to ED after ingesting 20 g of paracetamol 3 hours ago in a suicide attempt. He weighs 70 kg. He is asymptomatic. Serum paracetamol level is pending. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Start N-acetylcysteine infusion now

Answer

Wait for paracetamol level at 8 hours before treatment

Answer

Give activated charcoal only

Answer

Admit for observation with no specific treatment

Answer

Start haemodialysis

Practice question

A 29-year-old man presents to ED after ingesting 20 g of paracetamol 3 hours ago in a suicide attempt. He weighs 70 kg. He is asymptomatic. Serum paracetamol level is pending. What is the most appropriate next step?