OBJECTIVE: Considering that the nosocomial infections have been a serious problem of public health all over the world in both developed and developing countries, this revision has the aim of amplifying the pediatrician's knowledge, in different interfaces of the question. METHODS: A review of the articles from the specific literature of the area leading to a practical presentation of the topics as well on the personal experience of the writers, who work in this area. RESULTS: We have characterized which topics are important when dealing with nosocomial infection as, for example, the concepts used in nosocomial infections, the methods of epidemiological surveillance, the nosocomial infections in pediatric critical areas as the intensive care and the neonatal units, the techniques of isolation and precaution, ending with general and specific preventive actions. CONCLUSION: Technical knowledge about the central questions in nosocomial infections should be basis for a conscious and responsible involvement of all the professionals in the health area to control and prevent these infections.