A client has a first recurrence of nonfulminant Clostridioides difficile infection 3 weeks after completing vancomycin. Which actions are appropriate? Select all that apply.
Select All That Apply
Choose your responses, then check the answer.
Explanation
For recurrent CDI, fidaxomicin is preferred when feasible, modifiable antibiotic pressure should be reduced, infection-control measures continue, and recurrence-risk adjuncts may be considered.
Quick answer Treat the recurrence while reducing continued microbiome pressure and transmission risk.
Why this is correct IDSA/SHEA suggests fidaxomicin over a standard vancomycin course for recurrent CDI and supports bezlotoxumab consideration in selected clients with a recent recurrence. Clinical symptoms, not an isolated test, guide treatment.
Easy analogy or mental picture Remove the fuel, target the organism, and block another spark from spreading.
NCLEX decision rule Combine effective therapy with removal of avoidable drivers and monitoring of hydration, stool burden, abdominal findings, and recurrence.
Why the other choices are wrong Routine antimotility treatment can obscure deterioration, and indefinite treatment of asymptomatic colonization is not the recommended target.
References
1IDSA/SHEA 2021 Focused Update for C. difficile InfectionFidaxomicin preference for initial and recurrent CDI and bezlotoxumab consideration for recurrence risk