Question

A 20-year-old woman presents 2 hours after ingesting 20 g of immediate-release paracetamol in a suicide attempt. She weighs 60 kg and is haemodynamically stable. According to Australian paracetamol poisoning guidelines, what is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Measure serum paracetamol at 4 hours post-ingestion and use the nomogram to determine need for N-acetylcysteine

Answer

Reassure; dose is below toxic threshold

Answer

Send paracetamol level immediately and commence N-acetylcysteine if detectable

Answer

Wait 24 hours then measure paracetamol level

Answer

Admit for observation only; no levels needed

Practice question

A 20-year-old woman presents 2 hours after ingesting 20 g of immediate-release paracetamol in a suicide attempt. She weighs 60 kg and is haemodynamically stable. According to Australian paracetamol poisoning guidelines, what is the most appropriate next step?