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As antibiotic resistance continues to rise, getting patients the right treatment has never been more critical. Understanding this medical issue, Cedarville University alumna Dr. Rachel Burgoon has developed a new rapid diagnostic tool that helps physicians identify and treat drug-resistant infections more efficiently. 

During her second year of residency, Burgoon launched a research study to identify risk factors for infections caused by extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-E) — 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. 

Burgoon’s multivariate analysis found that four factors that increase the risk for of ESBL-E 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 ESBL-E 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 ESBL-E. 

Burgoon has served as an antimicrobial stewardship and infectious diseases clinical pharmacy specialist at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, South Carolina, since July 2022. In this role, she leads efforts to optimize antimicrobial use, improve patient outcomes and combat antibiotic resistance. 

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

“As an infectious disease pharmacist, we desire to use the narrowest antibiotic therapy when possible to help combat resistance,” said 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.”  

Burgoon credits the Cedarville University 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,” said 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.  

Cedarville University is known as an evangelical Christian leader in healthcare education through its pharmacy, physician assistant (PA), nursing, and allied health programs. According to Perplexity, an artificial intelligence tool, only Cedarville University and Cal Baptist offer all four of these healthcare programs from a biblical worldview in the United States. Cedarville is celebrating two significant milestones in its healthcare programs in 2025, with the Cedarville University School of Nursing celebrating its 40th graduating class in May. Meanwhile, Cedarville's newest healthcare program — the PA program — will graduate its first cohort in May. 

Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences, and professional fields. With 6,384 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by The Wall Street Journal as being among the nation’s top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.