Improving the understanding of risk, outcomes, and treatment of E. coli infections in people with multimorbidity

Risk of E. coli bloodstream infection and associated adverse outcomes are reportedly higher in people with multimorbidity but published reports do not adequately account for physical and/or mental health multimorbidity and frailty. There is limited information about drug-drug and drug-disease interactions in relation to recommended antibiotic therapy for E. coli infection in people with multimorbidity and associated polypharmacy, with implications for clinical policy and practice.

The overall aim is to improve understanding of the interactions between multimorbidity, risk of E. coli infection, antibiotic resistance and adverse outcomes, and the implications for the treatment and prevention of infections.

Objectives can be shaped by student’s interest/focus but broadly include to:

• Quantify rates of E. coli bloodstream infection, antibiotic-resistant infection and adverse outcomes in people with/without multimorbidity.
• Examine drug-drug and drug-disease interactions related to antibiotics used for the treatment of E. coli infections in people with multimorbidity and polypharmacy.
• Explore implications for policy and practice.

Primarily a quantitative data project, which could include statistical analyses using logistic regression, multilevel and time-to-event (including competing risks) modelling, and/or artificial intelligence (AI) approaches, there is scope to do a mixed methods project incorporating interviews, focus groups and/or observations with professional stakeholders and/or patient or public partners.

Diversity statement

Our research community thrives on the diversity of students and staff which helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for postgraduate research. We welcome applications from all talented individuals and are committed to widening access to those who have the ability and potential to benefit from higher education.