Approach to the Acute Abdomen

About this activity

This session covers the approach to a patient with an acute abdomen: recognising surgical emergencies, starting resuscitation, and deciding whether to operate, observe, or refer. It is intended for clinical staff at SJHK who manage patients with acute abdominal pain. It will be delivered as a presentation with case discussion and time for questions. By the end of the session, participants will be able to: List the common surgical causes of acute abdominal pain in adults and children. Identify the clinical features of peritonitis and intestinal obstruction on history and examination. Select and interpret first-line investigations: full blood count, urinalysis, pregnancy test, erect chest X-ray, and ultrasound. Describe initial resuscitation: IV access, fluids, analgesia, antibiotics, and nil by mouth. Identify patients who need urgent laparotomy or referral.