Clostridium difficile (C. diff)
Clostridium difficile, often referred to as C. difficile or C. diff, is a spore-forming, Gram-positive bacterium known to cause a spectrum of symptoms from mild diarrhea to life-threatening colitis. Its prominence within healthcare settings underscores the necessity for vigilant management within post-acute and long-term care (PALTC) facilities.
Beyond specific treatments such as oral vancomycin or fidaxomicin, the importance of infection control for prevention of C. diff is critical. Given the resilience of C. difficile spores, strict adherence to hand hygiene protocols (favoring soap and water over alcohol gels), usage of disposable equipment, and patient isolation become essential measures. Concurrently, the role of probiotics in either preventing or ameliorating C. difficile infections remains an active area of research.
Recurrent infections are a frequent concern with C. difficile. In such scenarios, extended tapered courses of antibiotics or even fecal microbiota transplantation may be considered.
Lastly, education plays a pivotal role. By ensuring staff understand the routes of transmission and the gravity of rigorous infection control measures, PALTC facilities can better safeguard both patients and caregivers.