Nurses' knowledge of Clostridioides difficile pre and post education: A continuing challenge.

Abstract

Background: Clostridium difficile is a cause of hospital acquired infection. Nurses require a sound understanding of infection prevention and control regardless of practice setting and competing infection control demands and priorities. This study aimed to identify nurses' knowledge and perceptions about Clostridium difficile infection following education.

Methods: A cross-sectional anonymous survey was distributed to nurses across a regional Northern Australia health service. Descriptive statistics and content analysis were used to analyse, summarise, and report the findings.

Results: A total of 167 completed surveys were included in the analysis. There were no significant differences in correct responses to the knowledge and practice survey statements compared to responses prior to the educational intervention. Additionally, there were no differences in total correct responses between nurses who received education about Clostridium difficile infection and those who did not, nor between nurses who worked in the tertiary hospital compared to nurses who worked in smaller rural facilities. Nurses who completed surveys prior to and following the educational intervention showed improved knowledge.

Conclusions: Nurses continue to demonstrate significant knowledge gaps about the management of CDI, underscoring the need for sustained, targeted education. Although pandemic-related restrictions limited in-person learning, face-to-face formats remained the preferred mode, possibly due to the benefits of immediate feedback and practical relevance to the clinical settings. Addressing the knowledge gaps through interactive, scenario-based training may enhance both engagement and knowledge retention of nurses and should be the explored in future research.