Final answer:
A common cause of hospital-acquired UTIs is bacteria, particularly when bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract are introduced to the urinary tract through means such as catheterization. Escherichia coli is often the most common bacterial cause. Preventative measures in hospitals include high hygiene standards and proper aseptic techniques during medical procedures.
Step-by-step explanation:
A common cause of hospital-acquired urinary tract infections (UTIs) is bacteria. UTIs can be caused by a variety of bacteria, but most often, they are the result of bacteria from the lower gastrointestinal tract being introduced to the urinary tract. These infections are particularly prevalent in hospital settings due to procedures such as catheterizations, which can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract. For example, the use of urinary catheters can lead to bacteria entering the bladder or kidney, causing an infection. In these cases, the most common culprit is Escherichia coli, which can be introduced from the patient's own gut flora or from external sources.
It is essential to maintain a high standard of hygiene and proper aseptic techniques during any medical procedure, especially catheterizations, to prevent the spread of bacteria and the occurrence of hospital-acquired UTIs. When an infection is suspected, physicians may prescribe antibiotics like ciprofloxacin to treat the UTI effectively.