MSFinals-1432

MSFinals-1432

A 58-year-old woman presents to the Emergency Department with abdominal pain, fever and two episodes of vomiting. She states that she has had previous episodes of right upper-quadrant pain with radiation to the right shoulder blade but has never sought medical attention for this.
Her past medical history is significant for obesity and hypertension.
Examination reveals an obese abdomen with tenderness in the right upper quadrant and epigastric region. No jaundice is evident.
Observations are as follows:
Temperature 38.5°C
Heart rate 87 beats per minute
Respiratory rate 19 breaths per minute
SpO2 98% (room air)
Blood pressure 145/86 mmHg
Laboratory results reveal an elevated white cell count and C-reactive protein. An abdominal ultrasound reveals multiple gallstones in the body of the gallbladder. The gallbladder is thickened, with the largest stone measuring 17 mm.
Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?