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Hospital Heist: Stealing Back Your Health From Pesky Pathogens Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), also known as nosocomial infections, are infections that patients acquire while receiving medical care in healthcare settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, and long-term care facilities. These infections typically manifest 48 hours or more after admission or within 30 days of receiving healthcare services. Epidemiology and Impact According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1.7 million hospitalized patients in the U.S. acquire HAIs annually, resulting in over 98,000 deaths each year. This statistic underscores the significant threat HAIs pose to patient safety and public health.. The global rate of HAIs is estimated at 0.14%, with a notable increase each year, leading to extended hospital stays and increased healthcare costs. Risk Factors Several factors contribute to the risk of developing HAIs, including: Length of hospital stay Use of