Clostridioides difficile is formerly known as Clostridium difficile – and often called C. difficile or C. diff. – is a germ (bacterium) that causes diarrhea and colitis (an inflammation of the colon). Most cases of C. diff infection occur while an individual has taken antibiotics or not long after they have finished taking antibiotics. C. diff can be life-threatening.
As C. diff Awareness Month comes to a close, we encourage all healthcare workers to review the latest C. diff information and resources available on the CDC Web site. It’s crucial all healthcare staff are familiar with the infection risks linked to diarrhea and what actions they can take to help stop the spread of germs through stool. C. diff is a germ that can cause diarrhea and spreads easily in health care settings.
If you ’re a training promoter or facilitator, check out the newest Project Firstline micro-learn trainings. These short, adaptable training resources can be used to educate your team on a variety of infection control topics. The micro-learns are a series of guided discussions that connect infection control concepts to immediate, practical value, so healthcare workers can recognize infection risks and take action to stop the spread of germs. Incorporate these quick, in-person trainings into your next team meeting or huddle.
Learn more:
- Project Firstline – North Dakota
- Project Firstline – South Dakota
Listen to Our Podcast – Q-Tips For Your Ears
C.difficile – What Everyone Needs to Know: What is C. diff, why is awareness of C. diff infections important and how can we prevent these infections to keep us safe? November is C. Diff Awareness Month; knowing the signs and symptoms is key to improved health and better outcomes. Take a few minutes to listen and learn more.
View our Focus 4 Health series on this topic
March 2023 | Clostridium Difficile Infections (CDI)