Name a condition that requires contact precautions.

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) necessitates contact precautions due to the nature of the bacterium and the severity of the infection it can cause. CDI can lead to significant gastrointestinal distress and is primarily transmitted through spores that can survive on surfaces for extended periods. These spores can be easily spread by direct contact with contaminated surfaces or hands, making standard precautions insufficient.

Contact precautions are vital to prevent the spread of these spores in healthcare settings. This typically includes the use of gloves and gowns when engaging with a patient who has CDI, as well as ensuring rigorous cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces and equipment to minimize the risk of environmental contamination.

While conditions like influenza, chickenpox, and the common cold are indeed contagious, they require different precautions, such as droplet precautions for respiratory infections, limiting the necessity for contact precautions specifically. Therefore, understanding the transmission routes and required precautions for various infections helps in the effective management of infections and the safety of both patients and healthcare workers.