What is a bloodborne pathogen?

A bloodborne pathogen is defined as a microorganism present in human blood that has the potential to cause disease. This includes various viruses and bacteria, such as HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C, that can be transmitted through exposure to infected blood or other potentially infectious materials. Understanding this definition is vital in healthcare and cosmetology fields because it underscores the importance of infection control practices, like using gloves and following safety protocols to prevent transmission. The presence of these pathogens in blood makes it critical for professionals to handle all bodily fluids with care to minimize the risk of contamination and disease spread. The other options focus on environmental hazards, chemical hazards, or transmission through different routes, which do not pertain to bloodborne pathogens.