Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, Vol 41, 59-66, Copyright © 1998 by The British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
MA Worsley
Clostridium difficile has become a major problem as a nosocomial pathogen
that is associated with the use of antibiotics. In the prevention and
control of C. difficile disease it is important that programmes are
directed at primary and secondary prevention. The three main elements of
prevention are: (i) restricted use of antibiotics; (ii) strict enteric
precautions when looking after patients with diarrhoea; and (iii)
meticulous cleaning of clinical areas. Although poor handwashing is known
to play a key role in the spread of infection, there is evidence that
compliance with handwashing protocols is low in many hospitals. Infection
control teams need to continue to develop creative education programmes to
improve compliance with simple infection control procedures. Consideration
needs to be given to ensure that patients have access to handwashing and
are well informed about infection prevention. Further work needs to be
carried out to establish the efficacy of disinfectants in the environment
and the identification of a user-friendly, effective sporicide. The
importance of both thorough cleaning with detergents to reduce the number
of spores in the environment, and clean equipment for each patient should
continue to be emphasized.
ORIGINAL ARTICLES
Infection control and prevention of Clostridium difficile infection
North Manchester Healthcare Trust, Trust Headquarters, Crumpsall, Manchester, UK.
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