Using the lived experiences of patients with Clostridium difficile infection to improve care

To better understand the lived experiences and needs of patients who have Clostridium difficile infection.

Interviews were conducted with 15 patients in an acute hospital using an interpretative phenomenological approach.

Experiences vary and depend onthe severity of each individual patient's condition, among other factors. Four main themes were identified: physical suffering impacting on activities of daily living; lack of control over bowel function; a lack of understanding of the illness; and issues around privacy and dignity.

Nursing and medical staff need a better understanding of the experiences of patients who have C difficile in order to provide them with the knowledge, reassurance and dignity they need.