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656 Bloodborne Pathogens in the Healthcare Setting
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Transmitting Bloodborne Pathogens

Fluids that Spread Bloodborne Pathogens

The transmission of bloodborne pathogens from one person to another occurs through the transfer of infected body fluids.

Common body fluids which can transmit bloodborne pathogens include:

  • blood
  • cerebral spinal fluid
  • semen
  • vaginal secretions

Semen and vaginal secretions can transmit bloodborne pathogens, but only during sexual contact.

Wearing disposable gloves can help protect you from accidental exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

3-1. Trent is an employee for a local ambulance company. As part of his job Trent is routinely exposed to patient blood and other bodily fluids. Which of the following actions would most likely transmit a bloodborne pathogen from the patient to Trent?