Healthcare workers are at risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens present in which of the following?

• A. Urine and feces
• B. Wound drainage
• C. Vomit and saliva
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Under standard precautions, any body fluid could be infectious if it contains blood, so healthcare workers are protected against exposure to bloodborne pathogens by treating all such fluids as potentially infectious. Bloodborne pathogens like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C can be transmitted when there is contact with blood or with fluids that may contain blood. Wound drainage clearly carries blood and can transmit pathogens through splashes or contact with skin or mucous membranes. Urine and feces can be contaminated with blood or infectious material if blood is present in the urinary tract or gastrointestinal tract. Vomit and saliva can also carry pathogens if they are contaminated with blood or other infectious material. Because any of these fluids might be a source of pathogens, the best approach is to use protective barriers, such as gloves and eye protection or a gown, along with proper hand hygiene and safe handling and disposal procedures.