16 January 2009
University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust is pleased
that the figures show a reduction in the number of cases of
clostridium difficile in our hospitals from 159 cases in April 2008
to 93 cases in September 2008. In the over 65 age group we have
decreased cases by 38% and in the under 65 age group we have
decreased cases by 48%.
This improvement is a direct result of the proactive measures we
have taken to control the spread of infection.
However, any C. diff infection is unacceptable to the Trust and
we are working hard to minimize C. diff in all of our
hospitals.
To do this, we have:
Recruited additional cleaning teams to carry out intensified
cleaning of single rooms and whole wards together with carrying out
a further deep clean of many wards at Bristol Royal
Infirmary.
Implemented hydrogen peroxide vapour decontamination, which is the
latest technology in deep cleaning. This process allows the
cleaning of previously hard to reach areas and electronic
equipment.
Put in place a team of specialist nurses and doctors to make sure
that the small number of patients who get C. diff receive the best
management and care.
Opened a specialist ward for patients with active C. diff disease
to reduce the risk of the infection spreading.
Tightened up on antibiotic prescribing by stopping the use of those
antibiotics most likely to increase the risk of C. diff and making
sure they are not given for longer than is essential.
The Trust takes the management of infection control very
seriously and will continue to take active steps to eradicate the
opportunity for C. diff infection.
