Which of the following are the two most likely sources of bloodborne pathogens in a healthcare setting?

• A. Direct skin contact and insect bites
• B. Unwashed hands and contaminated water
• C. Needlestick injuries and contaminated blood products
• D. Airborne droplets and contaminated food

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand what bloodborne pathogens are — these are infectious microorganisms in human blood that can cause disease in humans, such as HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C viruses.
2. Step 2: Identify common routes of transmission for bloodborne pathogens in healthcare settings, which typically involve direct exposure to infected blood or bodily fluids.
3. Step 3: Evaluate each option by considering whether it involves direct contact with blood or blood-contaminated materials. For example, needlestick injuries involve direct penetration of the skin by contaminated needles, which is a high-risk exposure.
4. Step 4: Recognize that contaminated blood products (such as transfusions) are another major source of bloodborne pathogens because they involve direct introduction of infected blood into a patient’s bloodstream.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the two most likely sources are those involving direct blood exposure: needlestick injuries and contaminated blood products, rather than routes like airborne droplets, insect bites, or contaminated food, which are less relevant for bloodborne pathogens.