A 30-year-old man presents with severe epigastric pain radiating to the back, vomiting and a raised serum amylase. He drinks 35 units of alcohol per w...

Question

A 30-year-old man presents with severe epigastric pain radiating to the back, vomiting and a raised serum amylase. He drinks 35 units of alcohol per week. He is tachycardic and mildly hypotensive. What is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Admit for intravenous fluids, analgesia and monitoring

Answer

Offer clear fluids orally and manage at home

Answer

Start broad-spectrum antibiotics in the community

Answer

Arrange urgent ERCP in all cases

Answer

Start long-term pancreatic enzyme replacement immediately

uk-plab-1 MCQ (SBA): Acute pancreatitis

A 30-year-old man presents with severe epigastric pain radiating to the back, vomiting and a raised serum amylase. He drinks 35 units of alcohol per week. He is tachycardic and mildly hypotensive. What is the most appropriate initial management?