Abstract Background Acute Pancreatitis (AP) has varying presentations, and guidelines recommend severity stratification of these patients to guide management. Surgical departments commonly use varying methods and/or use these methods incorrectly. The prominent Alanta criteria utilises examination findings, CT scan findings and elevated pancreatic enzymes to diagnose AP. Using the criteria incorrectly can lead to misdiagnosis and unnecessary radiation exposure. Additionally, diagnosing pancreatitis aetiology is crucial to providing targeted treatments, such as a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Aim The aim of this study was to identify aspects of AP diagnosis and severity scoring requiring improvement in a large general surgery department. Methods We identified adult patients admitted with AP between 01.01.2023 and 31.03.2023, and retrospectively collected data points recommended by a combination of national guidelines and the Atlanta criteria. The results were presented to a panel of expert Upper Gastrointestinal Surgeons and, with the panel’s guidance, an AP protocol was created to improve severity scoring and rapid diagnosis of AP. Results The severity scoring was only completed in 33% of cases and incorrectly used in the majority of cases. Based on request information and cases already fulfilling the diagnostic criteria, almost half of all CT scans performed were deemed unnecessary. Results on interventions for alcohol and gallstone cases highlighted significant shortfallings. Conclusion Significant improvements are required in severity scoring, adherence to diagnostic criteria and targeted treatment. A pancreatic protocol has since been established in this department and further analysis will be completed to create a closed-loop audit.