What type of isolation precautions would you implement for a patient with Clostridium difficile infection?

For a patient with a Clostridium difficile infection, implementing contact precautions is critical. This is because C. difficile is primarily transmitted through direct or indirect contact with contaminated surfaces, items, or equipment. Contact precautions include measures such as wearing gloves and gowns when entering the patient's room and ensuring that strict hand hygiene is practiced, particularly with soap and water, as alcohol-based hand sanitizers may not be effective against this pathogen.

By employing contact precautions, healthcare providers can significantly reduce the risk of spreading the infection to other patients and healthcare personnel, making it easier to control outbreaks in healthcare settings. Utilizing these precautions is essential in managing the environmental contamination typical of C. difficile and ensuring the safety of both the patient and the wider healthcare environment.