A 28-year-old man presents after ingesting 15 g of paracetamol 3 hours ago in a suicide attempt. He weighs 75 kg and is currently asymptomatic. Accord...

Question

A 28-year-old man presents after ingesting 15 g of paracetamol 3 hours ago in a suicide attempt. He weighs 75 kg and is currently asymptomatic. According to Australian paracetamol toxicity guidelines, what is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

Reassure as dose is not toxic

Answer

Start N-acetylcysteine immediately without blood tests

Answer

Wait 24 hours then check liver function tests

Answer

Induce vomiting at home and observe

au-amc MCQ (SBA): Paracetamol overdose

A 28-year-old man presents after ingesting 15 g of paracetamol 3 hours ago in a suicide attempt. He weighs 75 kg and is currently asymptomatic. According to Australian paracetamol toxicity guidelines, what is the most appropriate next step?