Clostridium Difficile

Course overview

Clostridium difficile infection is a major cause of infectious disease concern in North America. It is associated with hospital-acquired intestinal inflammation and diarrhea and, most commonly, with normal intestinal flora disruption due to poor prescribing practices of antibiotics. It has been reported that antibiotics prescribed in hospitals are often unnecessary or incorrect. Observing infection control recommendations and more careful antibiotic use can prevent clostridium difficile infection. The risk of clostridium difficile infection associated with antibiotic use and other contributing factors, disease recognition, treatment and prevention are discussed.