Class I recommendation for broad-spectrum IV antibiotics at presentation
Class IIb recommendation for adjunct corticosteroids only in select cases after antibiotics
Patient Discharge Instructions
copy discharge instructions
Post-hospital instructions
Antibiotic adherence
Complete full course as prescribed
Do not stop early if improved
Eye care
Lubrication if dryness or incomplete closure
Avoid contact lenses until cleared
Follow-up plan
Ophthalmology appointment date and time
ENT appointment if sinus source
Return immediately for red flags
Any vision change
New double vision
Increasing eye pain
Worsening swelling or proptosis
Fever recurrence
Severe headache
Confusion or neck stiffness
References
Guidelines and high-yield sources
Professional guidance
Ophthalmology practice resources on orbital cellulitis evaluation and management
Emergent ophthalmology involvement emphasis
Vision monitoring emphasis
Pediatric sinusitis and orbital complication pathways
Admission and IV antibiotics default
Surgical drainage criteria
Antimicrobial stewardship references for sinus-related orbital infections
MRSA risk based escalation
Anaerobe coverage for dental sources
Evidence summaries
Evidence and consensus framing
Class I recommendation statements
Imaging and IV antibiotics when orbital signs present
Drainage when vision threatened
ACEP Level A/B/C style labeling where applicable
Level B style support for CT in suspected postseptal disease
Level C style consensus for ultrasound as adjunct only
SymptomDx is an educational tool for medical professionals. It does not replace clinical judgment. Verify all clinical data and drug dosages with authoritative sources.