A 28-year-old man is brought to the emergency department because of a 2-day history of fever and pain in the left knee. His temperature is 39.3°C (102.7°F), pulse is 115/min, respirations are 19/min, and blood pressure is 105/70 mm Hg. Examination of the left hip shows tenderness; range of motion is limited. Minimal attempts to rotate the hip cause severe discomfort. The remainder of the examination shows no abnormalities. Arthrocentesis is performed, and synovial fluid analysis shows a white blood cell count of 110,000/mm³. Which of the following would provide the best treatment for this patient's condition?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: A high synovial fluid leukocyte count (>100,000/mm³) and absent crystals on microscopic examination strongly suggest bacterial joint infection. Septic arthritis requires antibiotic treatment to prevent joint destruction, osteomyelitis, and sepsis.

A 28-Year-Old Man Is Brought to the Emergency Department Because