What type of infections occur within 48 hours of hospital admission and affect 1 in 10 patients?

Nosocomial infections, also known as hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), are infections that patients acquire while receiving treatment for other conditions within a healthcare facility. These infections typically occur after 48 hours of admission, highlighting that they are not present or incubating at the time of hospital entry.

The statistic indicating that 1 in 10 patients is affected underscores the significant risk and prevalence of such infections. They can be caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, but the term "nosocomial" specifically refers to the setting in which the infection is acquired rather than the type of pathogen.

While viral, bacterial, and fungal infections can all be present in a hospital setting, the distinguishing feature of nosocomial infections is their occurrence in a healthcare environment and typically arising due to factors like invasive procedures, the use of antibiotics, or compromised immune systems of patients. Thus, the focus on the timing and environment of infection acquisition makes the correct answer nosocomial infections.