Clostridium Difficile (CDI) Causes Severe Problems In Nursing Home and Long Term Care Facilities

Written by Adam Peck Category: Nursing Home Infections January 23rd, 2013 2 min read

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) caused by an anaerobic, gram-positive, spore-forming bacillus organism, is the most common cause of healthcare-associated infectious diarrhea in healthcare facilities and has the potential to cause outbreaks in hospitals and other settings.

Exacerbated by the use of antimicrobial agents in the majority of cases, this disease has caused illness in all ages; however, the elderly (individuals 65 years of age or older) are at particular risk for this infection and of concern is the notable increase in morbidity and mortality in this population.

This article discusses CDI with emphasis on the challenges of this disease and infection prevention measures in the nursing home setting.

The term “nursing home” is defined by Webster’s New World Medical Dictionary” as a residential facility for persons with chronic illness or disability, particularly older people who have mobility and eating problems.” Nursing homes are also referred to as convalescent homes or long-term care (LTC) facilities. The terms nursing home and LTC facility are used interchangeably.

In 2010, patients aged 65 years or older had the highest rate of CDI with 19.3 cases per 1,000 hospitalizations, and this variable has prevailed since 1995. Data on the elderly has been consistent with national reports on CDI hospitalization rates.

– from Steven Peck, Senior Attorney at Peck Law Group

Share it

Questions? Check with Peck Today

Blog Lead Form

Elder Abuse and Neglect in Assisted Living Facilities

Elopement in Nursing Homes

Assisted Living Abuse

Settlement Reached in Assisted Living Facility Death

Assisted Living Abuse and Neglect Attorneys

Written by Adam Peck

Expertise: Personal Injury

Adam J. Peck, ESQ is a principal with Peck Law Group, APC. In 2008, Mr. Adam Peck received his Juris Doctorate from Whittier Law School where he graduated Cum Laude. His practice is primarily dedicated to representing Elders, Dependent Adults, along with their loved ones and family members, who have suffered horrific personal injuries.