What it means
Some bacteria, such as C. difficilesee dif-uh-SEELClostridioides difficile, a spore-forming bacterium that can infect the colon (the large intestine).Full entry , the bacteria that cause tetanus and anthrax, and many fungi, form spores. A spore can survive on surfaces for months and become active again when conditions are right. Killing spores needs sterilization or special sporicidal cleaners, such as bleach-based products.
For the nurse
Alcohol hand rub does not kill spores. After caring for a client with C. difficile, wash hands with soap and water, and clean the room with a sporicidal product.
At a glance
| Spanish | espora |
|---|---|
| Also written | spores |
Related terms
C. difficile
Clostridioides difficile, a spore-forming bacterium that can infect the colon (the large intestine).
hand hygiene
Cleaning the hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.
decontamination
Removing or destroying germs, chemicals or radioactive material from a person, surface or object to make it safe.
Bacillus
A group of rod-shaped bacteria that can form spores; written in small letters, bacillus means any rod-shaped bacterium.