The Hollywood, Fla.-based system restricted the ordering of C. diff tests for some patients, including those who received laxatives within 48 hours, people treated for C. diff in the last 14 to 24 days, and those who tested positive in the previous 14 days.
Patients who received a negative test result were also ineligible for a new test, according to a news release from the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology.
There were no restrictions for people admitted within the last 72 hours who recently had at least three loose or unformed stools or patients whose hospital stays were four days or longer.
After clinicians implemented the new guidelines, the percentage of unnecessary C. diff tests fell from 31.1% (among 106 patients) to 11% (224 patients).
Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit
