CNAs Most Likely to Have C. diff on Their Hands

A new study has found that, among healthcare workers, CNAs are the most likely to have C. diff spores on their hands after providing routine care to an infected person.

During the study, the researchers examined caregivers' hands after they came into contact with infected patients in a hospital infection control unit. The caregivers observed protocols including wearing disposable gowns and full-length sleeves and gowns.

The researchers found that approximately one-quarter of the workers had spores on their hands after providing care. They noted that the spores were more likely to be found after high-risk contact, such as rectal exams or changing bed linens. Since these tasks are frequently performed by CNAs, it could explain their higher likelihood of having C. diff on their hands.

Below is the reported likelihood for each type of caregiver to have C. diff spores on their hands:

• CNAs: 42 percent
• Physicians: 23 percent
• Nurses: 19 percent 

The researchers stressed that their results emphasize the importance of proper hand hygiene. 

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