Bone and/or joint infection

Suspected osteomyelitis or septic arthritis.

Eligibility

At least one must be met for the patient to be eligible for referral.

Standard history and examination with FBE, ESR, CRP

Red flags

Indicate urgent (Category 1) referral or emergency assessment.

Suspected bone/joint infection — immediately contact Orthopaedic Surgical Registrar on call (03 9076 2000) for urgent assessment

Do NOT commence antibiotics before specialist assessment

Usually managed in primary care