Are there any special requirements for surgical skin antisepsis for patients with Clostridioides difficile infection?

No.

Background:
Clostridioides difficile are part of the spore-forming bacteria. Sporicidal skin antiseptics do not exist. The general guidelines by the Robert Koch Institute also apply to patients with C. difficile infections. According to the guidelines, thorough skin antisepsis around the area of surgery should take place within the operating theatre using a certified antiseptic which is approved by the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte, BfArM). Additionally, the exposure time provided by the manufacturer must be adhered to.

References:
KRINKO (2018) Prävention postoperativer Wundinfektionen. Bundesgesundheitsbl. 61: 448-473.

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The A-to-Z database provides information on each pathogen, the most common infections that it triggers, its main transmission paths and recommendations on disinfection. In the glossary, you will find explanations of infection control terms. Search now!

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