Title: Risk Factors and Outcomes of Bloodstream Infection
Description: This dissertation examines risk factors and outcomes associated with bloodstream infection (BSI). In Chapter One, the problems of BSI are introduced and their significance described. In Chapter Two, the results of a systematic review and meta-analysis synthesizing the prevalence of one of the most rapidly emerging causes of BSI among nursing home residents, multidrug resistant-gram negative bacteria are described. In Chapter Three, a retrospective cohort study identifying the prevalence and risk factors for BSI present on hospital admission (POA) is reported, including an assessment of antimicrobial resistance in isolates causing BSI-POA by admission source (i.e. private homes, other hospitals and skilled nursing facilities). In Chapter Four, a retrospective cohort study explaining risks for hospital-associated infections (HAIs) among the BSI-POA cohort is described. Length of stay and mortality among patients with a BSI-POA who develop HAI and those who do not are reported. Finally, in Chapter Five, findings of the previous chapters are synthesized and the conclusion is provided including strengths, limitations and implications for policy and practice.