ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

What is the most common means of spreading infection?

1. Improper disposal of contaminated waste

2. Instruments that are improperly sterilized

3. Soiled linens

4. Human hands

The correct answer is: Human hands

Human hands are recognized as the most common means of spreading infection because they can easily carry pathogens from one surface to another and from one person to another. The skin naturally harbors bacteria, and when hands come into contact with contaminated surfaces, they acquire these pathogens. This is why proper hand hygiene, including frequent washing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, is emphasized in infection control protocols. Although other choices, such as improper disposal of contaminated waste, improperly sterilized instruments, and soiled linens, also pose significant risks for spreading infections, human hands are more frequently involved in the transmission process. They act as the intermediary for transferring germs during routine activities such as touching surfaces, shaking hands, or handling food, which increases the likelihood of infection spread. The role of hands in the transmission of infectious agents is particularly highlighted in healthcare settings, where handwashing before patient interactions is crucial for preventing healthcare-associated infections.