Clostridioides difficile – The Challenge to Care and Contain
Lightning Talk
Mary – Clare Smith1, , 1MLHD, Wagga, NSW, Australia
Background
Problem Statement and Problem Aim.
As a result of a staff survey sent to Infection Prevention leads, a knowledge gap was identified that reflected a lack of understanding of the bacteria in relation to the causes, transmission, and appropriate Personal Protective equipment to wear when caring for a Consumer with Clostridioides difficile (Commonly referred to as C Diff).
The aim of this project is to develop an easy-to-follow Staff Brochure based on the staff feedback to better inform clinical staff when caring for a consumer/s with this infection.
Method or Actions (What did you do?)
The staff survey was specifically targeted at Infection Prevention Leads at sites to establish if there was a knowledge gap in relation to caring for a Consumer with Clostridioides difficile.
Results (What happened as a result? Include patient outcomes if relevant)
The survey results reflected that overall, out of the 12 responses from staff, 11 of the staff requested information with specific information in it, to better assist them with caring for client with Clostridioides difficile.
Conclusion (Implications/Learnings)
One of the implications of the learnings is that it reflected a lack of understanding from staff in knowledge where to access appropriate clinical resources during their day-to-day work. This suggest that further education is also needed to demonstrate to staff where to find these resources online.
The key learning is to ensure that the Staff Brochure is not too detailed and easy to follow for staff in a busy healthcare setting and easily accessible online.
Biography
I work as the District Infection Prevention and Control Clinical Nurse Consultant (CNC) for Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) based at the Wagga District Office.
I have worked in this role for the last 4.5 years, the role covers 31 Hospitals including 2 Base Hospitals and 29 Multipurpose Service Sites across a very large geographical area with approximately 5, 000 staff. Part of my role is the Lead for the National Standard 3 Implementation. I am currently studying a Post Graduate in Infection Prevention and Control with the long term goal of becoming a credentialed IPC Practitioner.