Final answer:
A nosocomial infection is an infection acquired in a healthcare setting due to various factors like transmission of pathogens via contaminated equipment or improper hygiene practices by healthcare workers.
Step-by-step explanation:
A healthcare-associated infection acquired by a patient in a healthcare setting is known as a nosocomial infection. Nosocomial infections are diseases that are contracted in hospital settings due to various factors such as the transmission of pathogens via improperly sterilized medical equipment or healthcare workers not practicing proper hygiene. These infections pose a higher risk to patients with weakened immune systems.