Parapneumonic effusion/empyema

14-28 days total, if adequate drainage and no additional complications

Switch to oral antibiotics: drainage completed, clinical improvement, no oxygen (usually before discharge)
If no pathogen is isolated, amoxicillin is the oral antibiotic of choice if Hib immunizations up to date

The presence of an effusion/empyema does not direct antimicrobial choice. Antibiotics should be guided by severity of presentation.

If previously healthy and up to date on Hib immunizations:

If NOT up to date on Hib immunizations or if admitted to PICU for severe illness (not just for chest tube insertion):