A 16-Year-Old Boy Is Brought to the Emergency Department Due

question 178

Multiple Choice

A 16-year-old boy is brought to the emergency department due to severe abdominal pain.  He was playing soccer an hour ago when he suddenly developed left upper quadrant pain.  The pain is sharp and constant and makes it difficult for him to take deep breaths.  The patient has been otherwise healthy except for several days of fever, sore throat, and fatigue 2 weeks ago.  He takes no daily medications, and immunizations are up to date.  Temperature is 37.2 C (99 F) , blood pressure is 86/58 mm Hg, pulse is 122/min, and respirations are 24/min.  Pulse oximetry is 96% on room air.  Physical examination shows an uncomfortable-appearing adolescent.  The lungs are clear to auscultation, and heart sounds are normal.  The abdomen is soft, with left upper quadrant rebound tenderness.  Which of the following is the best next step in management of this patient?

• A)CT scan of the abdomen
• B)Diagnostic peritoneal lavage
• C)Exploratory laparotomy
• D)Monospot testing
• E)Volume resuscitation

---

Definitions:

Equity Method

An accounting technique used to reflect the investment in another company, typically applied when an investing entity holds significant influence over the investee.

Investee Earnings

The share of income that an investor recognizes from its investment in another entity.

Net Income

Net Income is the total profit or earnings of a company after all expenses, taxes, and costs have been deducted from total revenue.