Question

question 2 of 5
which statement best defines a bloodborne pathogen?
a bacterium or virus carried in human blood and body fluids
a harmless organism found in drinking water
a parasite that only affects animals
an allergen spread by airborne particles

Explanation:

To determine the best definition of a bloodborne pathogen, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: A bacterium or virus carried in human blood and body fluids. Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms (like bacteria or viruses) that are transmitted through blood and body fluids, so this matches the definition.
• Option 2: A harmless organism in drinking water. Bloodborne pathogens are not about harmless organisms in water, and they are related to blood/body fluids, not drinking water.
• Option 3: A parasite affecting only animals. Bloodborne pathogens can affect humans (e.g., HIV, Hepatitis B/C are bloodborne and affect humans), so this is incorrect.
• Option 4: An allergen spread by airborne particles. Bloodborne pathogens are transmitted via blood/body fluids, not airborne particles, and they are pathogens (not allergens in this context).

Answer:

A. A bacterium or virus carried in human blood and body fluids