Summaries of Independent Scientist (K) Awards

Rubin, Michael

Institution: University of Utah School of Medicine
Grant Title: Antibiotic Use and Bacteriuria in the Rural Nursing Home
Grant Number: K08 HS014017
Duration: 5 years (2003-2008)
Total Award: $673,650

Project Description: The goal of this project is to improve the care and safety of residents of nursing homes in rural areas of Utah by addressing the growing problem of antibiotic resistance and inappropriate antibiotic use in this setting. The focus of the work is antibiotic resistance among gram-negative urinary isolates and the management of catheter-associated bacteriuria and urinary tract infections in rural nursing homes, where little is known about management and surveillance practices.

Career Goals: This project will enable Dr. Rubin to expand his research skills by performing community-based studies which address the growing problem of antibiotic resistance and inappropriate antibiotic use in rural nursing homes.

Progress to Date: This project consists of two components: a surveillance study and an intervention study. The surveillance study includes a survey of infection control practices (completed), and an observational study of antibiotic resistance among gram-negative urinary isolates from residents of these nursing homes (ongoing). The intervention study is currently finishing up its piloting stage before full roll-out at nursing homes throughout rural Utah this summer.

Future Plans: The results of the survey will be compiled, analyzed, and published this year. Initial results from the observational study have been presented at the American Public Health Association (APHA) and the Society for Healthcare Epidemiologists of America (SHEA) national meetings; final results will be presented at the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) and submitted for publication this year. Results from the pilot of the intervention study will be presented later this year; the remainder of activity will focus on expanding and finishing the intervention study.

Highlights and Specific Accomplishments:

• Professional Memberships/Societies:
  • American Medical Association.
  • Utah Medical Association.
  • Infectious Diseases Society of America.
  • American College of Physicians.
  • American Medical Informatics Association.
  • Society for Healthcare Epidemiologists of America.

K-Generated Publications: None thus far; poster presentations and oral presentations given at national meetings (APHA and SHEA).

AHRQ Research Portfolio: Quality and Patient Safety; Long-term Care; Training.
AHRQ Goals: Safety and Quality

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