Question

A 44-year-old with acute thunderclap headache presents 2 hours after onset; neuro exam is normal. Which ED strategy can exclude SAH?

Accepted Answer

Noncontrast head CT performed within 6 hours with modern scanner and expert interpretation

Answer

Lumbar puncture is mandatory in all cases

Answer

CT angiography only, no noncontrast CT

Answer

MRI brain only

Answer

Discharge with return precautions

Practice question

A 44-year-old with acute thunderclap headache presents 2 hours after onset; neuro exam is normal. Which ED strategy can exclude SAH?