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C. difficile risk with antibiotics — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardGastro-intestinal TherapeuticsC. difficile risk with antibioticsGPhC CRA

An 81-year-old woman has watery diarrhoea four times daily after completing co-amoxiclav. She takes lansoprazole and has mild abdominal pain but no blood. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: C — Refer for assessment and possible Clostridioides difficile testing

Recent broad-spectrum antibiotic exposure in an older person raises concern about Clostridioides difficile infection. Assessment and stool testing may be needed, especially with ongoing diarrhoea. Antimotility drugs are generally avoided unless advised by a clinician. Restarting the precipitating antibiotic would be inappropriate.

Reference: NICE CKS; BNF