Summary:
Rachel Burgoon, a Cedarville University pharmacy graduate, developed a rapid diagnostic risk scoring tool to help physicians more effectively identify and treat drug-resistant infections.

Takeaways:

  1. Burgoon’s tool, based on four key risk factors, enables faster identification of patients at risk for ESBLE infections.
  2. Her research was published in Pharmacotherapy in January 2025, highlighting its clinical significance.
  3. Early hands-on research experience at Cedarville University played a crucial role in her professional development and success.

As antibiotic resistance continues to rise, getting patients the right treatment has never been more critical. Rachel Burgoon, a 2020 Cedarville University Doctor of Pharmacy graduate, has developed a new rapid diagnostic tool that helps physicians identify and treat drug-resistant infections faster than ever. 

Thanks to its effectiveness, Burgoon’s risk scoring tool was published in “Pharmacotherapy: The Journal of Human Pharmacology and Drug Therapy” by the American College of Clinical Pharmacy in January of 2025.  

Research Study Leads to Scoring Tool

During her second year of residency, Burgoon launched a research study to identify risk factors for extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing enterobacterales (ESBLE) infections—bacteria that are resistant to commonly used antibiotics and often more difficult to treat. After completing her residency, she expanded that research by developing a risk scoring tool designed for hospital use.  

“As healthcare providers, we desire to use the narrowest antibiotic therapy possible to help combat the infectious disease problem,” says Burgoon. “Being able to identify risk factors for infections allows us to better pinpoint which patients need broader therapy for resistant infections and to avoid overtreatment in those who don’t.”  

Four Factors Increase ESBLE Infection

Burgoon’s multivariate analysis found that four factors that increase the risk for of ESBLE infection: cirrhosis (a late-stage liver disease that scars healthy tissue) use of a urinary catheter, use of a central venous catheter (a deep vein access device) and a prior history of ESBLE infection. 

Using Burgoon’s scoring tool, researchers demonstrated the benefits of incorporating specific risk factors into clinical decision-making to identify patients most at risk for ESBLE. 

The Benefits of Hands-On Experience

Burgoon credits Cedarville University’s School of Pharmacy for equipping her with hands-on clinical experience and the opportunity to conduct a three-year research project on Alzheimer’s disease treatment—an experience she says gave her the skills and foundation needed for her current success.  

“Cedarville’s School of Pharmacy did an excellent job exposing me to clinical research early in my pharmacy education,” says Burgoon. “It’s equipped me with the skills I need to succeed in my role as an infectious disease clinical pharmacist in Charleston, South Carolina, while also building a strong foundation of faith that continues to influence my work.” 

Burgoon’s publication and ongoing impact as a clinical pharmacy specialist reflect the power of early clinical exposure, faith-based education and Cedarville University’s commitment to preparing the next generation of pharmacy leaders.  

Featured Image: Rachel Burgoon, a 2020 Cedarville University doctor of pharmacy graduate, developed a scoring tool to help diagnose and treat drug-resistant infections more rapidly. Image; Rachel Burgoon