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[Clostridium difficile outbreak in surgical wards]

T van Dalen1, Y van Dijk, J A Kaan

  • 1Afd. Chirurgie, Diakonessenhuis, Utrecht.

Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|April 29, 1998
PubMed
Summary

A hospital outbreak of Clostridium difficile infections in surgical patients led to significant illness and death. Strict hygiene measures and adjusted antibiotic prophylaxis helped control the spread of this infection.

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Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Hospital Epidemiology
  • Clinical Microbiology

Background:

  • Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) poses a significant threat in healthcare settings, particularly during outbreaks.
  • Surgical patients are vulnerable to CDI due to factors like antibiotic use and invasive procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the clinical impact and outcomes of a Clostridium difficile outbreak among surgical patients.
  • To evaluate the effectiveness of implemented control measures.

Main Methods:

  • A descriptive study design was employed at Diakonessen Hospital Utrecht.
  • Data on Clostridium difficile infections were collected retrospectively from August 1995 to September 1996.
  • Infections were identified through symptoms, C. difficile toxin assays, and sigmoidoscopy.

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Main Results:

  • Twenty surgical patients developed Clostridium difficile infections, with a mean age of 70.
  • Diarrhea was the primary symptom (11 patients), with some experiencing nausea and vomiting (8 patients).
  • Despite treatment, 25% of patients experienced recurrence, and 25% died; incidence decreased after implementing hygiene measures.

Conclusions:

  • Clostridium difficile infections in surgical patients are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality.
  • Implementing preventive hygienic measures is crucial for controlling the spread of Clostridium difficile.
  • Hospital outbreak management requires prompt and effective intervention strategies.