Basics
This bacterium is commonly called C. diff
What is Clostridioides difficile
(formerly Clostridium difficile)
The most common symptom of C. diff infection is this
What is watery diarrhea
This is one of the first steps in managing C. diff
What is reviewing and stopping antibiotics if possible
This is the preferred method for cleaning hands after caring for a patient with C. diff
What is washing with soap and water
C. diff most often affects this part of the body
What is the colon or large intestine
Patients with C. diff may also have this abdominal symptom
What is cramping or pain
This oral antibiotic is most commonly used as first line treatment of C. diff
What is vancomycin
These precautions are using in healthcare settings for patients with C. diff
What are contact precautions
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This is a major risk factor for C. diff
What are antibiotics
A stool test is commonly used to detect these disease-causing substances produced by C. diff
What are toxins
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Severe dehydration from C. diff may require this treatment
What is intravenous (IV) fluids
This type of disinfectant is often recommended
What is a bleach-based or sporicidal disinfectant
+100: following MIFU guidelines
C. diff can form these structures that survive on surfaces for long periods
What are spores
This serious complication of C. diff can cause life-threatening inflammation of the colon
What is toxic megacolon
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This procedure may be considered for patients with multiple recurrent C. diff infections
What is a fecal microbiota transplant (FMT)
This healthcare practice helps reduce unnecessary antibiotic use and lowers C. diff risk
What is antibiotic stewardship
This is the main way C. diff spreads in healthcare settings
What is the fecal-oral route, often through contaminated hands and/or surfaces
This specific lab finding (diagnosis) may be seen in severe C. diff infection
What is leukocytosis
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This other medication can also be used as a first line-treatment for some C. diff cases
What is fidaxomicin
In hospitals, patients with C. diff are often placed in this type of room setup when possible
What is a private room or single-patient room
Category: Severe Complications
This emergency surgical procedure may be needed in fulminant C. diff colitis when the colon is severely damaged
What is a colectomy