Guidelines
Septic Arthritis

Septic Arthritis

Microbiology

Duration of Therapy

3-4 weeks based upon organism and clinical response (4-6 weeks for hip)

  • Consider switch to oral antibiotics to complete therapy when clinically improved, inflammatory markers have started to normalize
  • C-reactive protein testing is recommended to monitor response to therapy and should be normal before stopping therapy

Suggested Regimen

Higher end of dosing range for more invasive staphylococcal infection with inadequate debridement

OR

  • If cultures positive for MSSA
  • Do not use empirically as does not cover K. kingae and causes phlebitis

OR

Penicillin Allergy

Higher end of dosing range for more invasive staphylococcal infection with inadequate debridement

Home IV Therapy (If Unable to Use Cefazolin)