ABSTRACT
A thorough history is important. The exact time and nature of the injury should be ascertained since this will guide treatment. For example, S. aureus is often impli cated in home and industrial infections, whereas Gram-negative bacteria should also be considered if the infection occurred on a farm setting. Determination of hand position during and after the injury is also important. Accompanying symp toms help determine how extensive the infection has become. The age of the patient is important as well. Hand infections in children may involve different bacteria such as oral flora and Gram-negative rods (e.g., H. Influenza or pseudomonas). Table 80.1 lists the common hand infections and antibiotics used to treat them.
