Final answer:
Nosocomial diseases are infections acquired during a hospital stay from various sources like contaminated equipment and are more prevalent in patients with weakened immune systems; familiar sources include bacteria like C. difficile. Iatrogenic diseases are related to medical procedures, and contaminated medical devices can lead to infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
Infectious diseases that are acquired or develop during a hospital stay are typically referred to as nosocomial diseases. These infections can occur from a variety of sources within the hospital setting, such as contaminated medical equipment, bed sheets, and contact with health care workers who do not properly sterilize their hands. Patients in hospitals are often at greater risk due to their weakened immune systems, and the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria can exacerbate the issue as these pathogens can be tough to treat. Common types of nosocomial infections include those caused by Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus spp., Helicobacter pylori, Clostridium perfringens, Clostridium difficile, Bacillus cereus, and Yersinia bacteria, with C. difficile being a significant cause of hospital-acquired infection.
Diseases related to medical procedures are known as iatrogenic diseases, and they can arise from procedures like wound treatments or surgeries if the site becomes contaminated. Conditions favor the formation of biofilms on indwelling catheters and prostheses, such as the presence of a medical device in a patient, which can contribute to infections. Additionally, health care associated bacteria introduced via contaminated ventilators or other medical equipment are another source of hospital-acquired infections.