Which patients are considered at higher risk for healthcare-associated infections (HAIs)?

Patients who are surgical and those with chronic diseases are considered at higher risk for healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) due to several factors. Surgical patients often have open wounds or incisions that provide a potential entry point for pathogens. The surgical environment may also involve the use of invasive devices, like catheters or ventilators, which can further increase infection risk.

Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders can compromise the immune system's ability to fight off infections. These patients may also require more frequent healthcare interventions, further increasing their exposure to potential pathogens in healthcare settings.

In contrast, individuals with healthy immune systems, those seeking routine check-ups, and patients without any pre-existing conditions typically have a lower risk of developing HAIs, as they generally face less exposure to invasive medical procedures and have a robust immune response to combat infections. Therefore, option B highlights groups of patients who are indeed at a higher risk of contracting infections due to their medical conditions and the nature of their care.