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Osteomyelitis — Suspicion — Clinical Pathway: Emergency and Inpatient

Osteomyelitis Clinical Pathway — Emergency Department and Inpatient

Low Versus Continued Suspicion for Osteomyelitis

Level of Suspicion for Osteomyelitis Physical Assessment Criteria
Low Suspicion for Osteomyelitis
  • Afebrile and no other signs of systemic illness (fatigue, decreased activity, irritability, etc.)
  • Able to bear weight or otherwise use affected extremity
  • No focal pain, warmth, erythema, or swelling on exam
Continued Suspicion for Osteomyelitis
  • History of fever
  • Focal pain/discomfort with specific positions
  • Decreased function/weight-bearing of affected area
  • Swelling, tenderness, erythema, and/or warmth on exam
  • Positive blood culture without source
  • Presumed superficial infection (such as cellulitis) not improving as expected

 

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