When NOT to test for CDiff?

Nurses General Nursing

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Hi Nurses!

Question from a new nurse: I understand you test for CDiff if a patient has 3 or more loose stools for 24 hours (expect if the patient's been administered laxatives in the prior 24-48hrs). But what if the patient is on a clear liquid diet or has tube feedings running? Are loose stools then expected?

Thank you in advance for all your input!!!

Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

What do you think? Will there be formed stools with clear liquid? What are enteral feeding composed of?

Well, ok. I guess I should reword my question. If a patient is on a clear liquid diet or receiving tube feedings, at what point are you concerned about CDiff? From my understanding, smell is not an accurate indicator of CDiff.

Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Correct. What are the risk factors for c diff?

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