ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

An inanimate object that has been in contact with infectious microorganisms is termed a:

1. Vector

2. Fomite

3. Host

4. Reservoir

The correct answer is: Fomite

An inanimate object that has come into contact with infectious microorganisms is referred to as a fomite. This term is specific to surfaces or items such as doorknobs, towels, or medical equipment that can harbor pathogens and facilitate their transmission to individuals. Understanding the role of fomites in the spread of infection is crucial in infection control practices, especially in healthcare settings, where the risk of transmitting infectious agents can lead to outbreaks. Vectors, on the other hand, typically refer to living organisms, such as insects or rodents, that can carry and transmit infectious pathogens to humans. A host is an organism that harbors a pathogen, allowing it to live and reproduce, while a reservoir indicates a natural habitat or environment where an infectious agent typically resides and multiplies. Each of these terms has distinct meanings in the context of infectious disease transmission, which helps to clarify the concept of fomites in managing and preventing infections.