In briefThe etiology of abdominal pain is diverse, but, for immediate purposes, the team physician must simply focus on whether the process requires surgical intervention. An effective history includes a detailed description of the pain and its onset, and an accounting of associated symptoms and events. Pain from a serious condition typically arises suddenly and is continuous, progressively worse, and long lasting; begins during inactivity; and is not near the umbilicus. Portions of the physical exam that require physical contact should begin farthest away from the site of maximal pain. Auscultation should precede palpation to avoid alteration of peristalsis.