Managing C. diff Using a Bundled Approach

In October 2010, Memorial Medical Center implemented an intervention “bundle” designed to reduce onset of C. diff by 15 percent from prior year baseline. The bundle included five elements: (1) contact precautions, (2) hand washing, (3) environmental cleaning, (4) laboratory alerts and (5) staff education.

For 12 months (ending September 2011), incidence of C. diff decreased by 31 percent over the prior year; in fact, zero cases occurred for six consecutive months, supporting the utility of the five element treatment bundle.

This case study is part of the Illinois Hospital Association's annual quality awards. Each year, IHA recognizes and celebrates the achievements of Illinois hospitals in continually improving and transforming health care in the state. These hospitals are improving health by striving to achieve the Triple Aim--improving the patient experience of care (including quality and satisfaction); improving the health of populations; and reducing the per capita cost of health care.

Award recipients achieve measurable and meaningful progress in providing care that is:

• Safe
• Timely
• Effective
• Efficient
• Equitable
• Patient-centered

(The Institute of Medicine's six aims for improvement.)