Transitions of care in Clostridioides difficile infection: a need of the hour.
Sahil KhannaJames LettCheri LattimerGlenn S TillotsonPublished in: Therapeutic advances in gastroenterology (2022)
Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is a complex disease that by virtue of both its initial virulence and proclivity toward recurrent episodes causes a high morbidity, mortality, and financial burden. This burden is felt by patients and their families as well as the U.S. healthcare system. Recurrent CDI episodes can occur in 25-65% of patients, with a cycle of multiple recurrences in a single patient contributing to the complexity of care. Patients with or suspected of having CDI will receive treatment and their care will be managed across multiple healthcare settings and will include many different levels of healthcare workers. The understanding of this infection is essential for all who are involved in the care of these patients. A well-structured and implemented Transition of Care process can ease the burden on the healthcare system, patients, and their families; reduce the cost of care; and improve patient outcomes. We review the development of Transitions of Care processes, resource guides, and their relevance to improving the management of CDI.
Keyphrases
- healthcare
- palliative care
- end stage renal disease
- quality improvement
- newly diagnosed
- ejection fraction
- chronic kidney disease
- prognostic factors
- affordable care act
- pain management
- escherichia coli
- risk factors
- blood pressure
- clostridium difficile
- cardiovascular disease
- chronic pain
- cardiovascular events
- young adults
- combination therapy