Protocolo de dor abdominal para adultos e idosos atendidos em um serviço de urgência

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Abdominal pain is one of the most frequent symptoms in patients who seek health services. According to the Ministry of Health (MS), abdominal pain is one of the main complaints in the spontaneous demand of patients in Brazil. Most cases have a favorable evolution, however, a small percentage of patients are at risk of life and, therefore, require immediate intervention, either surgical or clinical treatment. This condition is the acute abdomen, a frequent pathology with high morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE: To develop an abdominal pain protocol and standardize the management of adult and elderly patients with abdominal pain in the emergency department. METHODOLOGY: This is a systematic literature review to develop an abdominal pain protocol with emphasis on acute abdomen, which was based on scientific articles, magazines and books. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The protocol can help in managing suspected cases of acute abdomen in emergency departments. Acute abdominal pain with a risk of acute abdomen should always be analyzed, as this is a situation that requires immediate management. A focused history and careful physical examination are essential to create an appropriate differential diagnosis. It is always important to consider the patient's age, sex, personal and pathological history. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: Acute abdomen is a serious and frequent condition, but it does not always have an assertive diagnosis. Therefore, early diagnosis is important to avoid increased morbidity and mortality of patients. The creation of a protocol with targeted procedures makes it easier for the patient with an acute abdomen to be evaluated by the surgeon earlier. Therefore, it is important to have a protocol in emergency services.