Final answer:
The major source of hospital-based infections is contaminated equipment, which can transmit pathogens to patients if proper sanitation practices are not followed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major source of hospital-based infections is contaminated equipment. Nosocomial infections are diseases acquired in hospital settings, and they can occur through various means such as through contaminated medical equipment, bed sheets, call buttons, or door handles. These pathogens can be easily transmitted to patients if clinicians, nurses, or therapists do not properly sanitize their hands before touching a patient.