Define nosocomial infection.

• A. An infection acquired in a hospital or healthcare facility.
• B. An infection acquired during childbirth.
• C. An infection contracted outside a healthcare setting.
• D. An infection caused by community-acquired bacteria.

Answer: (A)

Nosocomial infection refers to an infection a patient acquires while receiving care in a hospital or other healthcare facility. It is distinct from infections present at admission or those contracted in the community. A common practical rule is that infections appearing after about 48 hours in the hospital are considered nosocomial, since they are more likely related to the care setting, procedures, or devices used there. The other options describe infections tied to childbirth, outside the healthcare setting, or caused by community-origin bacteria, which do not define nosocomial infections.