Clostridioides Difficile (CDI)
What is Clostridioides difficile?
Clostridioides difficile (commonly known as C. difficile) is a type of bacteria found in the intestines. It has been recognized as a major cause of health care-associated diarrhea for over 30 years. While it can be present in the bowel without causing harm, under certain conditions, it can lead to serious illness.
What causes C. difficile?
C. difficile infection is caused by an overgrowth of C. difficile bacteria in the gut. Typically, it does not cause illness unless the natural balance of the healthy bacteria is disrupted. Risk factors for development are antibiotic usage, over 65 years of age, use of certain stomach medication, or history of bowel surgery. C. Difficile can multiply and produce toxins that damage the lining of the colon, leading to the symptoms stated below. The bacteria form hardy spores that can survive on surfaces for long periods.
- Watery diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and tenderness
- Fever
How does C. difficile spread?
It is spread by the fecal-oral route when spores from the stool of an infected person contaminate hands, surfaces, or shared equipment and then touches an individuals mouth making proper hand hygiene, environmental cleaning and contact precautions essential to prevention. If a person with normal, healthy gut flora is exposed to C. difficile they are less likely to develop it however it is not absolute. Washing hands with soap and water will kill the spores and prevent transmission.
What precautions are taken to prevent the spread of C. difficile?
Additional precautions are taken to stop C. difficile from spreading to other patients in the Hospital. These precautions include:
- Single room accommodation
- A long-sleeved gown and gloves must be worn by everyone entering the patient’s room.
- A sign is placed at the patient’s door to remind all who enter about the additional precautions required
- The room and the equipment used in the room are cleaned and disinfected regularly with a sporicidal
- The patient must clean his or her hands before leaving the room
Families and visitors are also required to wear a gown and gloves while in the patient’s room, and to dispose of them in the containers provided and perform hand hygiene with soap and water (to kill spores) prior to leaving the room. They are encouraged to leave their belongings outside the room as to prevent contamination..
