Clostridium Difficile Case Study

Clostridium difficile, also referred to as C. diff, is a bacterium that is known to cause mild to severe diarrhea and can lead to severe inflammation of the colon (Government of Canada, 2014). C. diff contains spores that are found in fecal matter. Through encountering a surface containing contaminants such as feces, puts a person at risk for the later development of diseases such as c. diff. This bacterium can also be spread through contact from healthcare workers that have not followed correct cleansing routines such as but not limited to hand washing. High dosages or extended usage of antibiotics can also increase the chances of developing C. diff (Government of Canada, 2014). Antibiotics change the number of bacteria found in the body, in this case the gut, and in result to the lowered number the bacterium has a higher chance of survival and production of

It is also possible to have c. diff dormant in the intestines, but with no symptoms or actual sickness. Furthermore, the bacterium can still be spread to others, leading to the development of symptoms usually within 5-10 days (Mayo Clinic, 2016). Its symptoms include but are not limited to, watery diarrhea, fever, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain and abdominal cramping. Using Nightingale’s theory, the prevalence of c. diff in the hospital can be improved by more rigorous personal cleanliness practices, ensuring proper knowledge on the bacterium and proper practices of room etiquette.

C. diff commonly occurs in the healthcare environment through unsafe cleanliness practices. Spores that are passed in the feces can easily spread to food and other objects if a person fails to follow proper hand washing protocol. If a surface is not cleaned properly, the spore may be present in the room for up to