Which statement is true about healthcare-associated infections (HAIs)?

The statement that healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) occur during the course of being treated in a healthcare facility is accurate. HAIs are infections that patients can acquire while receiving treatment for medical or surgical conditions, and they can arise from various sources, including invasive procedures, catheterizations, and the use of ventilators. Recognizing that these infections occur during healthcare treatment highlights the importance of infection prevention and control measures in all healthcare settings, not just surgical environments.

The other statements have significant limitations. For instance, HAIs can occur in numerous healthcare settings, including outpatient offices, long-term care facilities, and not just surgical wards. Additionally, HAIs can be caused by a variety of pathogens, including viruses, fungi, and parasites, not exclusively bacteria, which emphasizes the need for a broad understanding of infection control practices. Finally, while many HAIs can be significantly reduced through stringent infection control protocols, it is not realistic to claim they can be completely prevented, as factors such as patient vulnerability, pathogen variability, and healthcare practices can contribute to their occurrence.