What is a "nosocomial infection"?

A "nosocomial infection" refers specifically to infections that are acquired in a hospital or healthcare facility. This type of infection occurs when patients receive treatment for other conditions but develop additional infections due to being in a medical setting. These infections are particularly concerning because they can be caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria and can complicate patient recovery, leading to longer hospital stays and increased healthcare costs.

Nosocomial infections can arise from surgical procedures, invasive devices like catheters, or simply from the hospital environment where pathogens are more likely to be present due to the concentration of patients and healthcare staff. Common examples include urinary tract infections, surgical site infections, and respiratory infections.

Understanding this definition is crucial in healthcare settings for infection control measures, which aim to reduce the risk of these infections occurring. Proper hygiene practices, sterilization of equipment, and careful patient monitoring are essential strategies in preventing nosocomial infections.