Final answer:
Clostridium difficile is a significant concern in healthcare due to its ability to cause severe diarrhea and related conditions after antibiotic use disrupts the normal gut microbiota. Diagnosis is made through patient history and laboratory tests, whereas treatment focuses on rehydration and avoiding further disruption of gut bacterial balance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Clostridium difficile is a gram-positive rod that becomes problematic when the normal gut microbiota is disrupted, typically by antibiotics. The disruption allows for the overgrowth of C. difficile, leading to conditions like antibiotic-associated diarrhea and more severe complications such as pseudomembranous colitis. It is a major cause of nosocomial disease. Diagnosis relies on a combination of patient history, clinical presentation, and laboratory tests to detect toxins or the bacteria itself. Treatment includes rehydration, electrolyte replacement, and cautious use of antibiotics to prevent further microbiota imbalance and resistance issues. Prevention involves proper handling and cooking of food and prudent antibiotic use.