An infection that is contracted during a hospitalization is called:
A. nosocomial
B. communicable
C. autoimmune
D. idiopathic
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is A. nosocomial.
Nosocomial infections are those that are acquired during a hospital stay or healthcare setting. These infections are typically contracted from other patients, hospital staff, or contaminated equipment. They can be caused by a wide variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Common examples include urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and surgical site infections.
The term “nosocomial” comes from the Greek word nosos meaning disease and komeion meaning to care for, so it refers to diseases acquired in a healthcare setting. Nosocomial infections are a significant concern in healthcare settings because they can complicate patient recovery, increase treatment costs, and prolong hospital stays.
One of the main factors contributing to nosocomial infections is the increased exposure to potentially harmful pathogens in hospitals, especially in intensive care units or areas where patients with weakened immune systems are treated. Poor hygiene practices, improper sterilization of medical instruments, and failure to adhere to infection control protocols can also contribute to the spread of these infections.
Preventing nosocomial infections involves strict hand hygiene protocols, proper sterilization of medical equipment, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by healthcare workers. Hospitals often have infection control teams that monitor, track, and implement strategies to prevent these infections, including educating staff on proper techniques and managing the use of antibiotics to prevent resistance.
In contrast to nosocomial infections, B. communicable refers to infections that can be transmitted from person to person, such as the flu or cold. C. autoimmune refers to diseases where the immune system attacks the body’s own cells, and D. idiopathic refers to diseases with no known cause.