ETHOS

I have severe abdominal pain, and I am doubled over and unable to move.

Patient

Hi, I'm experiencing a lot of pain right now, and I'm not sure what to do. Can you help me figure out what might be going on?

Triage Assistant

Sure, I can help with that. Where does it hurt?

Patient

It's in my abdomen. The pain is pretty severe, and I'm having a hard time moving.

Triage Assistant

Got it. Let's start by clarifying a few details to better understand your situation. Does the pain shoot anywhere else, like your chest or back?

Patient

No, it's just concentrated in my abdomen.

Triage Assistant

When did the pain begin? Was it minutes, hours, or days ago?

Patient

It started a couple of hours ago, and it has just been getting worse.

Triage Assistant

Was the onset of pain gradual or sudden?

Patient

It was pretty sudden. One moment I was fine, and the next I was in a lot of pain.

Triage Assistant

Is the pain constant, or does it come and go?

Patient

It's pretty constant. There's no relief from it.

Triage Assistant

How would you rate your pain on a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 is mild pain that doesn't interfere with normal activities, and 10 is excruciating pain that makes you unable to do any normal activities?

Patient

It's definitely a 10. I can barely move or think straight because of the pain.

Triage Assistant

Given the severity of your pain and its constant, worsening nature, you should go to the emergency department (ED) immediately. This could be a sign of a serious condition that requires urgent medical attention. While waiting for medical help, try to lie down with your feet elevated. Thank you for calling, goodbye.

Dispositions

  • Call EMS 911 Now

  • See More Appropriate Protocol

  • Go to ED Now

  • Go to ED/UCC Now (or to Office With PCP Approval)

  • Go to Office Now

  • See in Office Today

  • See in Office Today or Tomorrow

  • See in Office Within 2 Weeks

  • Home Care

  • Triage result was accurate.

  • First aid advice was given.

  • Some assessment questions asked.