A 34 year old woman is brought to A&E after ingesting an unknown quantity of paracetamol about 2 hours ago. She is well and examination is normal. Wha...

Question

A 34 year old woman is brought to A&E after ingesting an unknown quantity of paracetamol about 2 hours ago. She is well and examination is normal. What is the most appropriate immediate investigation to guide further management?

Accepted Answer

Take a timed plasma paracetamol level at 4 hours post ingestion

Answer

Perform urgent CT of the head

Answer

Measure serum liver enzymes immediately only

Answer

Start N acetylcysteine without any levels

Answer

Wait 24 hours and then check a level

uk-plab-1 MCQ (SBA): Paracetamol overdose

A 34 year old woman is brought to A&E after ingesting an unknown quantity of paracetamol about 2 hours ago. She is well and examination is normal. What is the most appropriate immediate investigation to guide further management?