Impact of asymptomatic Clostridioides difficile carriage screening on antibiotic stewardship among hospitalized patients.

Abstract

This study evaluated how informing clinicians about Clostridioides difficile (CD) carriage affected antibiotic stewardship. A quasi-experimental pre/post design assessed antibiotic use in carriers versus non-carriers. Clinician awareness was associated with reduced antibiotic use, particularly quinolones, among carriers. Findings suggest screening and targeted education enhance stewardship and reduce high-risk antibiotic use.