Final answer:
The term nosocomial refers to an infection acquired in a health care setting. Diseases acquired in hospitals are known as nosocomial diseases. Factors like pathogens, weakened immune systems, and drug-resistant bacteria contribute to the prevalence of these diseases.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term nosocomial refers to an infection acquired in a health care setting. Diseases acquired in hospital settings are known as nosocomial diseases. Several factors contribute to the prevalence and severity of nosocomial diseases, including the presence of pathogens in hospitals and the weakened immune systems of patients. Additionally, the prevalence of antibiotics in hospital settings can select for drug-resistant bacteria that cause serious infections.