Abdominal pain history-taking station

Abdominal pain stations reward a methodical history that localises the problem and excludes surgical emergencies. Keep your structure tight so you reach a plan within the time.

How to structure it

• Characterise the pain: site, radiation, character, timing and aggravating or relieving factors.
• Ask about associated GI, urinary and (where relevant) systemic symptoms.
• Screen for red flags — severe or worsening pain, vomiting, GI bleeding, fever.
• Cover relevant past history, drugs and a brief social history.

Common pitfalls

• Failing to localise the pain before generating a differential.
• Missing red flags that point to a surgical abdomen.
• Talking at the patient rather than checking their concerns.

Examiners reward a safe, organised history, a focused differential, and clear safety-netting about when to seek urgent help.