C. difficile Prevention

with lymphoma is admitted to the ICU for sepsis from an unknown source. He has a history of C. difficile.

Which intervention will DECREASE his risk of C. difficile?

How did others respond?

Reveal the answer

Best Answer:

Narrow antibiotics when able

Explanation: Limiting antibiotic spectrum is an excellent way to prevent C. difficile infection. Neither chemotherapy or antifungal coverage will decrease risk. What about probiotics? 🤔

2021 American College of Gastroenterology guidelines recommend AGAINST probiotics for prevention of C. difficile.

Clinicians should know that probiotics can cause secondary infections in immunocompromised & critically-ill patients.