Clostridium difficile infection in a geriatric ward

Role of the hospital environment in disease transmission, with a focus on Clostridium difficile

“…Being admitted to a room previously occupied by a patient with CDI has been demonstrated to be a risk factor for the development of CDI. 12,60,61 In a multivariate analysis of risk factors for acquisition of CDI, Shaughnessy reported that the hazard ratio for admission to a room whose previous occupant had CDI was 2.35 (strongest risk factor in the analysis). 12 Monsieur and colleagues described nine patients who developed C. difficile during their hospitalisation; four of these patients stayed in rooms where the previous patients had CDI and all acquired a type of C. difficile that was isolated from a previous patient.…”

“…12 Monsieur and colleagues described nine patients who developed C. difficile during their hospitalisation; four of these patients stayed in rooms where the previous patients had CDI and all acquired a type of C. difficile that was isolated from a previous patient. 61 Improved room disinfection has led to decreased rates of CDI. 28,44,51,62,63 .…”

Clostridium difficilein Long-Term–Care Facilities for the Elderly

“…15 When C. difficile is present in LTCF residents, multiple strains of the organism are often found in the facility. 15,25 However, clonal outbreaks 28 and exogenous acquisition of new strains 25,31 have also been documented. Transmission likely occurs by direct spread from the hands of personnel, fomites, or the nursing home environment.…”