Question

A 45-year-old man with a history of alcohol excess presents to the Emergency Department with severe epigastric pain radiating to the back, associated with nausea and vomiting. His serum amylase level is 1500 U/L (Reference range <100 U/L). What is the most important initial management step?

Accepted Answer

Administer IV fluids

Answer

Administer IV morphine

Answer

Arrange urgent ERCP

Answer

Administer IV antibiotics

Answer

Insert nasogastric tube for decompression

Practice question

A 45-year-old man with a history of alcohol excess presents to the Emergency Department with severe epigastric pain radiating to the back, associated with nausea and vomiting. His serum amylase level is 1500 U/L (Reference range <100 U/L). What is the most important initial management step?