A 72-year-old man presents with an acutely swollen, painful knee with decreased range of motion and fever of 38.5 °C. There is a large effusion and th...

Question

A 72-year-old man presents with an acutely swollen, painful knee with decreased range of motion and fever of 38.5 °C. There is a large effusion and the joint is exquisitely tender. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

Accepted Answer

Arthrocentesis for synovial fluid analysis and urgent intravenous antibiotics with orthopaedic consultation

Answer

Start oral NSAIDs and review in 1 week

Answer

Start allopurinol and colchicine

Answer

Intra-articular steroid injection in the ED

Answer

Physiotherapy referral only

au-amc MCQ (SBA): Septic arthritis

A 72-year-old man presents with an acutely swollen, painful knee with decreased range of motion and fever of 38.5 °C. There is a large effusion and the joint is exquisitely tender. What is the most appropriate next step in management?