ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

A nosocomial infection is a(n):

1. Infection acquired at a large gathering

2. Upper respiratory infection

3. Infection acquired in a hospital

4. Type of rhinitis

The correct answer is: Infection acquired in a hospital

A nosocomial infection refers specifically to an infection that is acquired in a hospital setting. These infections are typically contracted by patients during their stay in the hospital, particularly because of their compromised immune systems or exposure to various pathogens present in healthcare environments. Nosocomial infections can result from different sources, including surgical procedures, invasive devices, or prolonged hospitalization. They pose significant challenges for patient care, including increased morbidity, extended hospital stays, and greater healthcare costs. The term encapsulates a wide range of infections, not limited to a single type or site, making it crucial for healthcare providers to implement stringent infection control measures. The other choices involve different contexts that do not fit the definition of a nosocomial infection. For instance, infections acquired at large gatherings, upper respiratory infections, and types of rhinitis pertain to various public settings or specific anatomical symptoms rather than the healthcare-related context associated with nosocomial infections. Understanding this distinction is essential for healthcare providers in preventing and managing such infections in hospitals.