Septic Arthritis
Antimicrobial prescribing: NHS Fife
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