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C. difficile risk antibiotics — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateInfections and AntimicrobialsC. difficile risk antibioticsGPhC CRA

An elderly patient prescribed co-amoxiclav reports profuse diarrhoea and abdominal cramps after five days. They ask for loperamide. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: B — Refer urgently for assessment of antibiotic-associated colitis

Severe diarrhoea during or after antibiotics raises concern for Clostridioides difficile infection. Antimotility treatment is not the priority and clinical assessment is needed. In this scenario, the correct option is refer urgently for assessment of antibiotic-associated colitis. The other options are plausible but do not address the key clinical, legal or safety issue as directly. This aligns with UK pharmacy practice guidance cited in the reference field.

Reference: NICE CKS; BNF