Comparative Effectiveness of Beta-Lactams Versus Vancomycin for Treatment of Methicillin-Susceptible<i>Staphylococcus aureus</i>Bloodstream Infections Among 122 Hospitals

For patients with MSSA bloodstream infections, beta-lactams are superior to vancomycin for definitive therapy but not for empiric treatment. Patients should receive beta-lactams for definitive therapy, specifically antistaphylococcal penicillins or cefazolin.