Precipitating risk factors:

Predisposing factor:
- Existing joint problems.
- Age, Obesity, Trauma, Genetics
(significant family history) Reduced - Chronic diseases and
levels of sex hormones, Muscle conditions that affect the
weakness. joints

Etiology:
Caused by bacteria that spread through the bloodstream from
another area of the body. It can also be caused by a bacterial
infection from an open wound or an opening from a surgical
procedure, such as knee surgery.

Septic arthritis can develop when an infection in the joints is caused by

bacteria, viruses or fungus. Less commonly, a puncture wound, drug
injection, or surgery in or near a joint including joint replacement surgery DISEASE
which can give the microorganisms an entry into the joint space. The lining PROCESS
of the joints has little ability to protect itself from infection. Your body's
reaction to the infection including inflammation that can increase pressure
and reduce blood flow within the joint contributes to the damage.

Signs and Symptoms:

Chills; Fatigue and generalized weakness; Fever; Inability to move the limb with the infected joint;
Severe pain in the affected joint, especially with movement; swelling (due increased fluid within
the joint); Warmth (the joint is red and warm to touch because of increased blood flow); Not
wanting to use or move the affected joint

Nursing Actions:
Surgical Interventions:

Medical and Pharmacological 1. Arthroscopy

1. Elevate the joint to
reduce swelling and pain interventions: 2. Open surgery
for joint
2. Apply ice to the joint to 1. Joint Drainage drainage
reduce swelling and pain 2. Antibiotic therapy 3. Removal or
replacement of
3. Administer medicine as joint
prescribed

4. Encourage exercise for

the affected joint as
instructed.