A 36-year-old woman presents with 24 hours of right lower quadrant pain, anorexia, and low-grade fever. Examination shows localised tenderness and gua...

Question

A 36-year-old woman presents with 24 hours of right lower quadrant pain, anorexia, and low-grade fever. Examination shows localised tenderness and guarding. WBC is mildly elevated. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Immediate broad-spectrum IV antibiotics and urgent surgical consult for suspected appendicitis

Answer

CT abdomen with contrast

Answer

Abdominal ultrasound and observation only

Answer

Colonoscopy

Answer

Reassure and discharge with analgesia only

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): Acute appendicitis

A 36-year-old woman presents with 24 hours of right lower quadrant pain, anorexia, and low-grade fever. Examination shows localised tenderness and guarding. WBC is mildly elevated. What is the most appropriate next step?