What should be specifically avoided when caring for a patient with C. diff?

When caring for a patient with Clostridioides difficile (C. diff), it is crucial to avoid using alcohol-based hand sanitizers. C. diff is a spore-forming bacterium that causes severe diarrhea and can lead to serious complications. The spores are resilient and not effectively killed by alcohol-based sanitizers. Therefore, hand hygiene using soap and water is recommended over alcohol-based options in this case.

Using soap and water helps to physically remove the spores from the hands, which is essential for preventing the transmission of the infection. In addition, the cleaning of surfaces with approved disinfectants is necessary to eliminate spores from the environment, protecting other patients and healthcare staff from potential exposure. Following universal precautions remains important in all patient care scenarios, including those involving C. diff, ensuring a consistent approach to infection prevention.