What type of precautions should be implemented for patients diagnosed with C. diff?

Patients diagnosed with Clostridium difficile (C. diff) require contact precautions to prevent the spread of this highly transmissible organism. Contact precautions are specifically designed to minimize the risk of transmission through direct or indirect contact with the patient or contaminated surfaces.

C. diff spores can survive on surfaces for extended periods and are resistant to many disinfectants. As a result, healthcare workers must adhere to strict hygiene practices, which include wearing gloves and gowns when entering the room of a patient with C. diff. This approach helps ensure that the spores are not transferred to other patients or areas within the healthcare facility.

The implementation of these precautions is crucial because C. diff infections can lead to severe diarrhea and can be particularly dangerous for hospitalized patients, those with weakened immune systems, and the elderly. Therefore, using contact precautions is a vital part of controlling the outbreak of this infection and protecting vulnerable populations.