What is the most appropriate therapy for a child diagnosed with a septic joint?

• A. Physical therapy
• B. Intra-articular steroid injection
• C. Oral Amoxicillin
• D. IV Nafcillin

Answer: (D)

When a child is diagnosed with a septic joint, the primary concern is the presence of infection within the joint space. The most appropriate therapy in this case is intravenous Nafcillin. This antibiotic is specifically effective against Staphylococcus aureus, which is a common organism responsible for septic arthritis in children. Immediate and aggressive antibiotic treatment is necessary to control the infection, reduce joint damage, and avoid complications.

The use of intravenous antibiotics allows for rapid achievement of therapeutic drug levels that are critical when treating infections, especially in pediatric patients. Administering the antibiotic intravenously ensures it reaches systemic circulation quickly and effectively, providing swift action against the offending pathogen.

In contrast to intravenous Nafcillin, other options do not adequately address the need for urgent antimicrobial treatment. Physical therapy, for instance, may play a role in rehabilitation after infection and resolution of symptoms, but it is not a primary treatment for the active infection. Intra-articular steroid injection could potentially exacerbate an existing infection and is contraindicated in cases of septic arthritis. Oral Amoxicillin is generally not effective for this type of infection, as it does not cover the resistant strains of bacteria that may be present.

Thus, intravenous Nafcillin is the most suitable and effective treatment, making it