USMLE Adviser
Acute Abdominal Pain: Step-by-Step Approach (Flowchart)
The USMLE Adviser Acute Abdominal Pain flowchart turns this presentation into a short series of yes/no decisions, the way Step 2 CK and Step 3 vignettes test it. Here is how it begins.
How the flowchart starts
The first branch asks about shock / peritonitis. If present, the next question is whether the pain was sudden and severe. If not, the chart works through pain location, starting with RUQ pain and then RLQ pain.
FAQs
How does the acute abdominal pain flowchart start?
The first branch asks about shock / peritonitis. If present, the next question is whether the pain was sudden and severe. If not, the chart works through pain location, starting with RUQ pain and then RLQ pain.
Where can I see the full acute abdominal pain flowchart?
The complete flowchart is page 88 of the USMLE Adviser e-book, Clinical Algorithms: Volumes 1 & 2, which has 232 flowcharts across 19 specialties.
Related flowcharts
Get the full flowchart
The USMLE Adviser e-book has 232 one-page clinical flowcharts across 19 specialties for Step 2 CK, Step 3 and the Match. Instant digital download.
From Clinical Algorithms: Volumes 1 & 2 by Dr. Adnan Memon, MD (page 88). Reviewed by the USMLE Adviser Team. For exam preparation only, not medical advice.