What do we call an infection acquired during hospitalization?

A nosocomial infection is defined as an infection that is acquired within a healthcare setting, typically during hospitalization. These infections can occur due to various factors such as surgical procedures, the use of invasive devices, or exposure to pathogens present in the healthcare environment. The significance of identifying nosocomial infections lies in their potential impact on patient outcomes, as they can lead to complications, increased healthcare costs, extended hospital stays, and higher morbidity and mortality rates.

Understanding the nature of nosocomial infections highlights the importance of infection control measures in hospitals, including hand hygiene, sterilization of instruments, and proper isolation protocols, to mitigate the risk of transmission. This term reflects specific epidemiological patterns and concerns associated with healthcare-related infections and is a key focus in nursing and healthcare practices.