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Healthcare associated infections

Healthcare associated infections (HCAIs) are infections that are picked up in health and social care organisations or as a result of healthcare treatment. There are a number of things that can increase your chances of getting an infection, but good hygiene will reduce the risk.

Clostridium difficile Infection – C.diff

C.diff is short for Clostridium difficile. This is a bacterium (germ) which some people carry in their bowel without becoming ill. It is normally kept under control by the ‘good’ bacteria in the bowel and doesn’t normally cause any problems in healthy people. However, when these good bacteria are killed by antibiotics, C.diff is able to multiply and produce toxins (poisons) which may cause diarrhoea.

C.diff also produces spores. A spore is a germ with a 'coat' that enables it to survive for a long time in the environment.

What are the symptoms of C.diff?

The main symptom of C.diff is severe diarrhoea which has a very unpleasant smell. Other symptoms include:

  • stomach cramps
  • fever
  • nausea
  • loss of appetite

Symptoms may last from a few days to several weeks.

What treatment will I need if I have C.diff?

You will only need treatment for C.diff if you have symptoms. The healthcare staff will assess your treatment options according to your individual circumstances.

MRSA

MRSA is a strain of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) which is resistant to commonly used antibiotics. It is no more infectious than other strains of S.aureus, but can be more difficult to treat and therefore the infections can become more severe.

MRSA can infect surgical wounds and if it enters the bloodstream it can cause bacteraemia, and chest infections – especially in ventilated patients.

MRSA is more likely to cause problems in patients with weakened immune systems, underlying diseases or conditions or with a central line in place.

How do you know when someone has MRSA?

The only way to tell if someone has MRSA is by sending a sample such as urine to a laboratory to be tested.

What treatment will I need if I have MRSA?

To help you get rid of MRSA (known as decolonisation) your doctor may give you an antibiotic ointment to put up your nose, an antiseptic skin cleanser to use and perhaps an antiseptic mouthwash. If you have any wounds or sores you may also be given special dressings and ointment to apply. Sometimes you may be given antibiotics.

In some cases, MRSA is lost naturally over a short period of time.

Pseudomonas

Pseudomonas is a bacterium that is often found in soil and water. It is more likely to infect people who are hospitalised and have underlying health problems.

You can find out more about Pseudomonas at the page below:

Preventing the spread of infection in hospitals

To help prevent and control the spread of infections, you should:

  • always clean your hands properly by washing them with liquid soap under running water, or using hand sanitiser
  • bath or shower before coming into hospital and as often as you are able during your stay
  • remember to bring clean changes of underwear, nightwear and towels
  • keep your locker and table as tidy as you can as it makes them easier to clean
  • send your dirty washing home as soon as possible
  • do not share towels or other personal belongings

What can visitors do to help?

If you are visiting someone in hospital, there are steps you can take to help prevent infections spreading. Remember: