PPE & Transmission
What type of isolation does a CDIFF rule out, or CDIFF positive patient require?
Enteric.
Who monitors antibiotic use?
- nurses
- pharmacy
- IPs
If a patient has 1 CDIFF infection, how likely are they to have a recurrent infection within 3 weeks?
20 - 30%
What are common symptoms of an active CDIFF infection?
- cramping/abd pain
- elevated WBCs, febrile
- >3 loose/watery stools within 24 hours
This type of hand hygiene is crucial after removing gloves when caring for C. diff patients to ensure the removal of spores.
washing hands with soap and water
Who can speak up about de-escalating IV abx?
anyone
What are some complications of a CDIFF infection?
- dehydration
- kidney failure
- toxic megacolon
- bowel perforation
- sepsis
- recurrent infection
Best ways to prevent a CDIFF infection
Clean hands, reduce abx usage
How can you contract CDIFF after taking care of a CDIFF patient?
Improper hand hygiene leading to consumption of spores.
If a patient is on multiple abx, who can you recommend consulting?
Infectious Disease
What are some risk factors that increase the risk of developing CDIFF?
- antibiotic use
- recent hospital/LTCF admissions
- age > 65 years old
- previous CDIFF infection
- GI surgery
What is the contact time for the orange (bleach) wipes?
4 minutes
Name a way that a nearby patient can contract CDIFF from a neighboring positive patient
- improper cleaning of equipment
- dirty hands
In addition to abx, what supplement can be given?
Probiotics, or greek yogurt
If a patient has had 1 recurrence of CDIFF, what is the likelihood they will have a 2nd?
60%
Name the components of the CDIFF bundle (positive patients).
- enteric isolation sign
- orange bouffant over hand sanitizer
- isolation supplies/box outside room
- bleach wipes
This type of personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential when caring for patients with CDIFF to prevent the spread of infection.
- gloves
- gown
What is in the unit fridge to supplement abx use?
Greek yogurt
What is an unlikely symptom of a CDIFF infection, but is seen in <10% of positive patients?
Constipation, leading to pseudomembranous colitis and potential colon perforation.
If a CDIFF rule out, or CDIFF positive patient has visitors, what PPE are they required to wear to visit in person?
-gown, gloves, proper hand hygiene
If a visitor is unable to wear the PPE or declines to wear it, there are other visitation options that can be provided.