Final answer:
Nosocomial infections are caused by health care associated bacteria or pathogens in hospital settings, often due to contaminated equipment or invasive procedures. The prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and patients with weakened immune systems contribute to the spread. Staphylococcus epidermidis is commonly associated with these infections related to medical devices.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nosocomial infections are well documented and caused by health care associated bacteria or pathogens that are introduced in a hospital setting. These infections can be transmitted through various means including contaminated medical equipment like ventilators and catheters, or through invasive procedures such as intubation, surgeries, and dental work. It's important to note that there is a difference between nosocomial and iatrogenic diseases; while nosocomial diseases are contracted in hospital settings, iatrogenic diseases are the direct result of a medical procedure.
Hospital-acquired infections can become particularly difficult to treat due to the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Patients in hospitals often have compromised immune systems, which makes them more susceptible to these infections. Among the various species that cause nosocomial infections, Staphylococcus epidermidis is frequently associated with infections transmitted via medical devices inserted into the body.
Factors like long-term use of broad-spectrum antimicrobials can lead to superinfections, and opportunistic infections such as C. difficile overgrowth can occur due to antibiotic use affecting normal microbiota. Awareness and preventive measures are crucial to control the spread of nosocomial infections, including rigorous sterilization processes and proper hand hygiene among healthcare providers.