C diff hospital improves infection control

A follow-up review found that the Vale of Leven hospital in West Dunbartonshire was showing good results six months after the team reported that "inadequate" controls were in place.

The latest report states: "There is documented evidence that rapid and very significant progress has been made in implementing the recommendations of the review team at Vale of Leven hospital.

"The review team has been impressed by the positive changes to the physical environment and positive atmosphere of the hospital."

A lack of isolation facilities meant that during the outbreak patients were transferred between wards and to other hospitals, causing the bug to spread.

Between December 2007 and June last year, nine people died because of the infection. In nine other cases the bug was a contributory factor.

A total of 55 people were affected.

Aberdeen University professor Cairns Smith, who led the review, said: "It is clear that NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde have achieved a great deal over recent months. They must however continue with this current level of commitment to maintain a high level of performance in infection control."

• Related article: Infection control nurses back ten-point guide highlighting rapid isolation to cut C. diff rates

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