Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) continues to be a challenging clinical and infection control issue for hospitals and other healthcare facilities. It has now passed methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) to become the most prevalent hospital-associated infection, and rates continue to increase. The purpose of this course is to provide a practical review of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, and management of CDI, with an emphasis on prevention and infection control measures required to limit transmission and reduce the incidence of disease. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented.
Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:
1. Discuss the pathogenesis, clinical features, and current trends in virulence and prevalence of Clostridium difficile and C. difficile diseases.
2. Identify populations at increased risk for C. difficile infection.
3. Describe ways C. difficile can be transmitted.
4. Cite methods of testing for C. difficile colonization and infection.
5. Select an appropriate C. difficile treatment option based on severity of disease.
6. Apply key principles and develop a specific strategy for infection control and prevention of C. difficile infection within healthcare facilities, including contact precautions, environmental cleaning, and antimicrobial stewardship.
This 5-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.
