PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is the acute treatment for diverticulitis?

1. Immediate surgical intervention

2. Medical management with IVF, bowel rest, IV antibiotics

3. Over-the-counter pain medication

4. Diet high in fiber

The correct answer is: Medical management with IVF, bowel rest, IV antibiotics

The acute treatment for diverticulitis primarily involves medical management, making monitoring and supportive care essential in the management of this condition. Patients experiencing diverticulitis often present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, and possible changes in bowel habits, which indicate inflammation of the diverticula. In the acute phase, the key components of treatment include intravenous fluid (IVF) administration to maintain hydration, bowel rest to allow the gastrointestinal tract to recover, and intravenous antibiotics to address the underlying infection. This approach helps to manage the inflammation and prevent further complications. Surgical intervention is typically reserved for cases of complicated diverticulitis, such as those presenting with abscesses, perforation, or recurrent episodes, rather than being the immediate first-line treatment. While over-the-counter pain medications may help with symptom relief, they do not address the underlying inflammation or infection. A high-fiber diet is beneficial for prevention and long-term management of diverticulitis but is not appropriate during the acute phase when the bowels require rest to heal.