Camille Rutledge — Abdominal Pain

Abstract

An educational simulation was developed for medical students focused on the assessment and management of acute abdominal pain in a young female patient, with particular emphasis on evaluating the possibility of pregnancy. The case involves an 18-year-old female, Camille Rutledge, who presents to the Emergency Department with lower abdominal pain and concerns about potential pregnancy. The learning objectives for this simulation include the ability to assess and manage acute abdominal pain, evaluate pregnancy in reproductive-age patients, interpret diagnostic tests related to early pregnancy, and communicate effectively with young patients about sensitive health issues. In the clinical scenario, students are tasked with taking a thorough patient history, conducting a physical examination, and ordering appropriate diagnostic tests, such as a urine pregnancy test and abdominal ultrasound, to confirm the pregnancy. The simulation is designed to enhance students' clinical reasoning, communication, diagnostic, and patient management skills. This case is particularly useful in a curriculum to prepare students for real-world scenarios involving young patients with reproductive health concerns and to improve their ability to handle sensitive topics with empathy and professionalism.