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Antibiotic-associated diarrhoea — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardGI TherapeuticsAntibiotic-associated diarrhoeaGPhC CRA

A 78-year-old woman develops watery diarrhoea 6 times daily after completing co-amoxiclav. She has abdominal cramps, temperature 38.1°C, and has been taking loperamide bought previously. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: B — Refer urgently for assessment of possible Clostridioides difficile infection

Recent broad-spectrum antibiotic exposure, fever, and frequent watery diarrhoea raise concern for C. difficile infection. Antimotility treatment such as loperamide is usually avoided where infective diarrhoea or colitis is suspected. The patient needs prompt clinical assessment, hydration advice, and stool testing or treatment according to local pathway.

Reference: NICE CKS; BNF