What is a nosocomial infection?

A nosocomial infection refers specifically to an infection that a patient acquires while receiving treatment in a healthcare facility, such as a hospital or nursing home. These infections typically occur more than 48 hours after admission to the facility and are often associated with procedures like surgeries, the use of catheters, or ventilators, which increase the risk of exposure to pathogens.

The primary reason for classifying infections as nosocomial is due to their link to the healthcare environment, where factors such as antibiotic resistance and the presence of other sick individuals can contribute to a higher risk of infection. It is important to distinguish these infections from those acquired in the community, which are not related to patient care within a healthcare setting. This differentiation helps healthcare providers implement appropriate infection control measures to prevent the spread of infections in hospitals and clinics.