Infections in total joint replacements

This article helps orthopaedic nurses identify patients most susceptible to infection, to identify signs and symptoms of infected joints, and to understand current treatment regimens. The incidence of infection in total joint replacements (TJR) is low, but once infection is established, the morbidity is high and the limb may be threatened. Infection remains one of the most devastating complications of TJR, and the goal is to prevent all TJR infections.