ABSTRACTAcute septic arthritis, or septic joint, results from bacterial invasion of the joint space. Infecting organisms can invade any joint through the bloodstream, from adjacent osteomyelitis, or through direct inoculation of the wound. Although this can occur at any age, children are particularly susceptible and must be treated rapidly by joint aspiration, arthrotomy, or by a combination of procedures. AORN J 70 (Dec 1999) 988–1002.