Certified Nephrology Nurse Exam Practice 2025 – Complete Study Guide

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is classified as a significant blood-borne pathogen due to its mode of transmission and impact on human health. It primarily spreads through contact with infected blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The concern with HIV lies in its ability to lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which severely compromises the immune system, making individuals highly susceptible to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.

In the context of healthcare, understanding the significance of HIV as a blood-borne pathogen is crucial for implementing proper infection control measures to prevent transmission among patients and healthcare workers. This includes the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe handling of needles and other sharp instruments, and adherence to universal precautions.

While MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), VRE (Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus), and Streptococcus are important pathogens in their own right, they do not primarily spread through blood as their main transmission routes. MRSA and VRE are typically transmitted through direct contact and are more related to skin or soft tissue infections. Streptococcus can cause various infections but is generally not categorized as a blood-borne pathogen. Thus, the classification of HIV as a significant blood-b