Managing acute pyelonephritis in this age group requires an approach calibrated to the child's age and clinical severity at presentation. Both antibiotic selection and the decision between oral and intravenous administration depend on these factors.
This protocol applies to children and young people aged 3 months and over and under 16 years. Age is a key determinant of the appropriate treatment path, and guidance is structured accordingly across the paediatric range.
When the child can take oral medicines and clinical severity does not require intravenous antibiotics, a first-choice oral antibiotic is offered first line. Supportive measures — including analgesia and adequate fluid intake — are also a core part of management. The complete protocol specifies antibiotic choice, age-banded guidance, and duration.
Symptoms should begin to improve within 48 hours of starting antibiotic therapy. Clinical reassessment is needed if symptoms worsen at any time or fail to improve by that point.