C. diff, short for Clostridioides difficile, is a bacteria that can cause symptoms ranging from mild diarrhea to life-threatening inflammation of the colon. At Cameron and other healthcare facilities, preventing and managing C. diff is a top priority to keep patients safe and healthy. Here’s what you should know about C. Diff.
What is C. Diff?
C. diff is a bacteria that lives in the intestines. While some people carry it without any symptoms, it can become harmful when it grows out of control. This typically occurs after taking antibiotics that disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the gut.
How does it Spread?
C. diff is highly contagious. It spreads through spores found in feces. These spores can survive on surfaces for long periods and are often spread via hands, equipment, or high-touch surfaces that are not properly cleaned. Good hand hygiene and thorough cleaning practices are essential to preventing its spread.
Who’s at Risk?
- People taking or who have recently taken antibiotics
- Hospitalized or long-term care facility patients
- Older adults (especially over 65)
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
- Those with a history of C. diff infection
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can vary but commonly include:
- Watery diarrhea (at least three bowel movements per day for two or more days)
- Fiebre
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain or tenderness
In severe cases, it may lead to serious complications like dehydration, kidney failure, or even sepsis.
Prevention: What We’re Doing and What You Can Do
At Cameron, we take a multi-disciplinary approach to infection prevention. This includes:
- Immediate isolation of suspected cases
- Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Rigorous cleaning and disinfection protocols
- Antibiotic stewardship programs
- Staff training and compliance audits
What you can do:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water (not just hand sanitizer)
- Follow healthcare provider instructions carefully when taking antibiotics
- Report any symptoms early if you or a loved one is in a healthcare facility
C. diff is a serious but preventable infection. Through awareness, early intervention, and strong infection control practices, we can protect our patients, staff, and community. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms or concerns, talk with your healthcare provider right away.
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