What it means
Spores, such as those of C. difficilesee dif-uh-SEELClostridioides difficile, a spore-forming bacterium that can infect the colon (the large intestine).Full entry and the bacteria that cause anthrax and tetanus, survive drying, heat and most disinfectants. A sporicidal product, such as a bleach-based (sodium hypochlorite) cleaner or certain peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide products, can kill them when used for the full contact time. Sterilants are sporicidal.
For the nurse
Clean the rooms of clients with C. difficile with an EPA-registered sporicidal disinfectant. Alcohol hand rub does not kill spores, so wash hands with soap and water after care.
At a glance
| Also written | sporicide, sporicides |
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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.
sterilant
A chemical that kills all forms of microbial life, including bacterial spores.
EPA
Environmental Protection Agency: the US agency that registers disinfectants; also eicosapentaenoic acid, an omega-3 fat.