Article Overview:

This article explores Clostridioides difficile (C. diff), a bacterium responsible for serious antibiotic-associated infections. It examines the organism's history, characteristics, and transmission, along with the symptoms, laboratory diagnostic methods, and treatment options for C. diff infections. Lastly, it discusses prevention strategies in healthcare and home settings and how the CDC has strategized to reduce infection rates nationwide.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe historical details and characteristics of Clostridioides difficile.
• Recognize clinical signs, symptoms and methods to identify Clostridioides difficile infection.
• Compare laboratory diagnostic assays for Clostridioides difficile and identify prevention, treatment, and infection control strategies.