Letter: c

An anaerobic, gram positive, rod shaped bacterium that produces endospores (spores). It is the most serious cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) often resulting from the eradication of the normal intestinal bacteria by antibiotics. New strains such as 027 have greatly increased the frequency and severity of C. difficile infections.

Events such as infections that occur closely together in a population; suggests possible outbreak.

Continuing Medical Education

Cell-Mediated Immunity

Certificate of Medical Necessity

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services

CVC is a small biocompatible tube or vascular access device made of soft flexible material inserted into a large vein of the peripheral vascular system and tip of the catheter advanced into the superior vena cava (SVC). The catheter insertion site may be an upper extremity, jugular vein or subclavian vein. Radiographic studies are necessary to confirm CVC placement. Subclavian or axillary tip placement: not considered as a CVC. SVC placement is required for administration of TPN and continues infusion of volume, toxic chemotherapy agents. See also Central Line.

Continuing Education Provider

Toward, or nearer to, the head.

Aqueous fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, and filling the four ventricles of the brain. It provides a cushion around the brain and spinal cord, and is contained within the subarachnoid space.