Weight Loss and Diet Blog

You know the old saying - a hospital is the last place a sick person should want to go. Well, we probably don't want to go to those extremes, but hospitals are full of germs.  Surprise!   OK, so we already knew that, but maybe we need a reminder.

C. difficile is drug-resistant bacteria that causes extreme diarrhea and can be deadly especially to those whose immune systems are already weakened by other illness.  And this bacteria is running rampant through the hospitals and skilled nursing homes of this country. 

For many, even though the disease can be held at bay for long periods of time, there is no cure.  Once contracted, C. difficile is an affliction you may have for the remainder of your life - hitting carriers much like Crons Disease with regular bouts of cramping and diarrhea.

And while we can't avoid these places there are things we can do to protect ourselves.  If you are simply visiting, even if you are by all indications quite healthy, wash your hands, clothing and purse-handles thoroughly when leaving. 

While you're there keep your hands away from your face.  And if you're going to be there for any length of time, wash your hands several times during your stay.  If you touch anything in the building, assume it is contaminated with the bacteria.  Better safe than sorry. 

If you are staying in one of these facilities, make sure all personnel was their hands when entering the room.  If you are too ill to do this, have a family member stay and help you.  They or you should also be double checking that the medicines you are being given are the correct medicines and are being given in the correct dosages. 

And last but not least, don't depend on the anti-bacterial wipes and gels available to protect you against this disease.  New evidence shows these simply spread the germs around.   There is no substitute for good ole soap and water.

Until next time,
B.J.
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