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Penetrating abdominal trauma with hemoperitoneum — ABEM Board MCQ

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ModerateTraumaPenetrating abdominal trauma with hemoperitoneumABEM Board

A 30-year-old man presents as triage level 1 after a stab wound to the left upper abdomen. BP is 76/40 mm Hg despite blood transfusion, FAST shows free intraperitoneal fluid, and he remains diaphoretic. Which of the following is the most appropriate disposition?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Immediate transfer to the operating room for exploratory laparotomy

Unstable penetrating abdominal trauma with positive FAST needs operative exploration rather than CT or observation.

Reference: ATLS principles; ABEM EM Model