National variability in surveillance, testing, and infection prevention for Clostridium difficile infection in pediatric populations

Abstract

To assess national variability in methods of identifying and preventing Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) in pediatric populations, an anonymous survey was sent to hospital epidemiologists at US children's hospitals. Data from 30 hospitals indicate substantial variability in surveillance, testing, and infection control strategies, which may limit reliable interfacility comparison of CDI rates. In addition, only 60% of respondents perform surveillance for community-associated CDI.

Keywords: Children; Epidemiology; Infection control.