Journal of clinical gastroenterology
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Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is associated with substantial emergency department (ED) and inpatient burden. To date, few studies have evaluated the ED burden of CDI. Using the Nationwide Emergency Department Sample, we evaluated trends in ED use, ED and inpatient charges, admission and mortality rates, length of stay, and independent risk factors for hospital admission and mortality after an ED visit. ⋯ Although ED use for CDI increased, rates of hospital admission decreased over 9 years. Identification of predictors of admission and in-hospital mortality will help guide policies and interventions to reduce the burden on health care resources.