The primary nosocomial transmission of the Clostridium difficile spore is through the contaminated environmental surfaces and hands of healthcare workers in hospitals and extended care facilities. As many as 13 to 15 % of healthcare workers' are colonized with the C. difficile spore on their hands, though these workers do not usually present with any clinical symptoms. Colonization is believed to occur after workers' hands have been contaminated with infected patients or contaminated surfaces. Endoscopy healthcare workers are frequently exposed to patients who have not completely eliminated stool from their colons and may have C. difficile. The clinical symptoms can range from a mild, self-limiting state to severe, life-threatening diarrhea, which can place a great financial burden on both the patient and the healthcare facility. When exposed to the different methods of instrument reprocessing, this spore is very resistant to destruction. This presentation will discuss transmission, clinical symptoms, incidence, diagnosis, treatment, and infection control practices as it relates to the C. difficile spore and the healthcare worker. A review of this resistant spore's possible devastating disease course will remind the endoscopy healthcare worker of the importance of following good infection control practices.

Section Description

We are pleased to present the abstracts from SGNA's 33rd Annual Course, SGNA on a Mission: Exceeding Expectations. The diversity of these topics certainly reflects the richness and breadth of our specialty. In keeping with the tradition of the Annual Course, we hope the following abstracts will encourage discussions for improving nursing practice and patient care outcomes.