Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

What is the best way to control the spread of C. difficile?

1. By limiting contact of the infected person with others

2. By using more powerful antibiotics

3. By giving more enemas to clean out the GI tract

4. Through proper handwashing and handling of contaminated wastes

The correct answer is: Through proper handwashing and handling of contaminated wastes

The best way to control the spread of C. difficile is through proper handwashing and handling of contaminated wastes. C. difficile spores are resilient and can survive on surfaces for prolonged periods. Effective hand hygiene, especially washing hands with soap and water, is crucial because alcohol-based hand sanitizers are less effective against these spores. Moreover, safely handling and disposing of materials contaminated with C. difficile is essential to prevent further transmission. This includes cleaning and disinfecting surfaces properly, as these spores can easily be transferred to surfaces and between individuals. The focus on handwashing and managing contaminated waste creates a barrier to the spread of the infection, thereby reducing the risk of outbreaks in healthcare settings or the community. Limiting contact of an infected person with others does not eliminate the existing spores in the environment or on surfaces, while using stronger antibiotics may contribute to antibiotic resistance and does not target the spores directly. Giving more enemas also does not address the critical issue of environmental control and hand hygiene.