C. diff
If you smell evil but can't spot Satan or the Grim Reaper, then the most likely source is someone infected with C. diff.
Risk Factors
Brown-nosing (Gomerblog) or gunnerhea.
Symptoms & Signs
Patients typically present with abdominal cramping and profuse diarrhea. It is not uncommon for them to feel so sick they ask you, "Is it possible for me to sh*t my brains out?"
Diagnosis
C. diff may have a distinctive smell and taste, but the gold standard for diagnosis is a stool C. diff toxin. In the event the patient has an atypical presentation with productive sputum, a sputum C. diff toxin can be sent.
Treatment
Flagyl and probiotics. As for health care professionals, don't forget your gown.[1][2][3] Though handwashing with soap and water is ideal, blowing off your hands entirely with state-of-the-art hand dryers is another great alternative.
Gomerpedia Advice
If someone asks if you'd like to taste their C. diff, respectfully decline. Trust us.
Related Reading
- MRSA
References