Question

A 16-year-old girl presents to the Emergency Department having taken an overdose of 20 paracetamol tablets (500mg each) approximately 4 hours ago. She is currently asymptomatic. What is the most important immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Check plasma paracetamol level at 4 hours post-ingestion

Answer

Administer oral activated charcoal

Answer

Start intravenous N-acetylcysteine infusion immediately

Answer

Induce emesis

Answer

Reassure and discharge with follow-up

Practice question

A 16-year-old girl presents to the Emergency Department having taken an overdose of 20 paracetamol tablets (500mg each) approximately 4 hours ago. She is currently asymptomatic. What is the most important immediate action?