Q. A 35-year-old male presented to the emergency department last night complaining of severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The patient reported that the symptoms had started suddenly and had been present for approximately 12 hours. Three episodes of non-bloody, non-bilious emesis were described. He reported no prior history of similar episodes. He was also found to be taking aspirin for pain management. The patient's past medical history is significant for a history of alcohol abuse and a 30-pack-year smoking history. Blood work and imaging was obtained, and the patient was admitted a few hours ago. You are rounding on the patient this morning.
On physical examination, his blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg, heart rate of 80/min, and oxygen saturation is 98 percent on room air. Vital signs are stable. The patient has tenderness in the upper abdomen, with a positive Murphy's sign. You review his laboratory values obtained upon admission which reveals an elevated white blood cell count of 14,000/mm3 and an elevated amylase level of 600 units/L. You also review the CT scan of his abdomen and pelvis (see image).
Based on the information you have at this point in time, which of the following therapies is most important to verify he is receiving?