This study estimates the number of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and deaths in U.S. hospitals in 2002. The authors used data from the National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance (NNIS) system, the National Hospital Discharge Survey (NHDS), and the American Hospital Association (AHA) Survey. They estimated approximately 1.7 million HAIs, including 33,269 in high-risk nurseries, 19,059 in well-baby nurseries, 417,946 in ICUs, and 1,266,851 outside of ICUs. The estimated number of deaths associated with HAIs was 98,987, with the majority due to pneumonia (35,967), bloodstream infections (30,665), urinary tract infections (13,088), surgical site infections (8,205), and infections of other sites (11,062). The study highlights the significant burden of HAIs in the U.S. and the need for improved surveillance and prevention strategies. The authors note that their estimates may be subject to limitations, including potential underreporting of infections and challenges in determining the exact cause of death. They also discuss the importance of standardized definitions and methods for HAI surveillance. The study underscores the need for continued efforts to reduce HAIs and improve patient safety.This study estimates the number of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and deaths in U.S. hospitals in 2002. The authors used data from the National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance (NNIS) system, the National Hospital Discharge Survey (NHDS), and the American Hospital Association (AHA) Survey. They estimated approximately 1.7 million HAIs, including 33,269 in high-risk nurseries, 19,059 in well-baby nurseries, 417,946 in ICUs, and 1,266,851 outside of ICUs. The estimated number of deaths associated with HAIs was 98,987, with the majority due to pneumonia (35,967), bloodstream infections (30,665), urinary tract infections (13,088), surgical site infections (8,205), and infections of other sites (11,062). The study highlights the significant burden of HAIs in the U.S. and the need for improved surveillance and prevention strategies. The authors note that their estimates may be subject to limitations, including potential underreporting of infections and challenges in determining the exact cause of death. They also discuss the importance of standardized definitions and methods for HAI surveillance. The study underscores the need for continued efforts to reduce HAIs and improve patient safety.