Septic Arthritis

Clinical features

• Hot, swollen, painful joint
• Fever and systemic upset

Investigations

• Blood culture
• Joint aspirate for culture

Infection Control

Basic universal precautions

Treatment

Source control is essential – discuss with Orthopaedics

Prosthetic joint infection may require debridement or removal of prosthesis

FLUCLOXACILLIN IV 2g 6 hourly

 

If true penicillin allergy or known MRSA:

VANCOMYCIN IV Dose as per calculator

Target trough 15-20 mg / L

Duration: Discuss with Microbiology