The knowledge of nurses about prevention of infections caused by the bacteria Clostridium difficile

Abstract

Introduction. Clostridium difficile is the leading cause of nosocomial
diarrhea, associated with the use of antibiotics. The most common
ways of transmitting the infection in hospitals are contaminated surfaces
of the premises and the hands of medical staff.
Methods. The study involved 68 nurses/technicians employed at
the University Hospital Foca in the departments of surgery and internal
medicine. As a research instrument, we used a specially designed
questionnaire, created by the authors for the purpose of this
research.
Results. The research showed that 61.8% of respondents knew that
hand washing with warm water and soap was considered the most effective
prevention of the spread of infections, and 55.88% meant that
they used chlorine-based preparations and hydrogen peroxide as the
only effective disinfectant. Nurses with a work experience of less than
5 years showed better knowledge than other groups.
Conclusion. The knowledge of nurses about the prevention of C. difficile
infection is not at a satisfactory level, which indicates the growing
need for education of nurses.