Question

A 26-year-old woman presents with right lower quadrant abdominal pain, nausea and low-grade fever. Examination reveals localised tenderness and guarding in the right iliac fossa. Pregnancy test is negative. According to Australian emergency surgical practice, what is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Urgent surgical referral for suspected appendicitis with appropriate imaging as guided by local protocols

Answer

Discharge with analgesia and review in 1 week

Answer

Arrange CT appendicogram only if symptoms persist for more than 72 hours

Answer

Start oral antibiotics and manage as outpatient

Answer

Order colonoscopy to exclude colonic pathology

Practice question

A 26-year-old woman presents with right lower quadrant abdominal pain, nausea and low-grade fever. Examination reveals localised tenderness and guarding in the right iliac fossa. Pregnancy test is negative. According to Australian emergency surgical practice, what is the most appropriate next step?