Plain abdominal radiographs and acute abdominal pain

In this study we audited one district general hospital's current practice of performing abdominal X-ray [AXR] in adult patients with acute abdominal pain. Data was collected from patients' notes one day post-admission and a total of 100 consecutive cases were reviewed in a two month period. AXR were deemed unnecessary in 53% of these in view of the patients' clinical presentation. Inappropriate use of AXR is a source of preventable radiation, patient discomfort and also an aspect of financial burden on the NHS. By educating staff, introducing an A and E poster and departmental protocol, the use of AXR can be restricted to necessary cases only