Final answer:
Health care professionals are primarily at risk for exposure to bloodborne pathogens, and they follow protocols and use protective gear to minimize this risk. The CDC provides guidelines for preventing the transmission of these pathogens.
Step-by-step explanation:
Health care professionals are at risk for exposure to several hazards due to their work environment. Diseases and contaminants can spread through various vectors, and the correct answer to what they are most at risk for is D) Bloodborne pathogens. These are infectious microorganisms present in blood or other body fluids that can cause disease in humans. Common examples of bloodborne pathogens include hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Health care professionals are trained to handle situations involving bloodborne pathogens by following strict protocols and using protective gear such as gloves, gowns, facemasks, and eye protection to minimize the risk of exposure. Policies established by organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide guidelines for the proper management and preventative measures in healthcare settings. The importance of cleanliness, proper disposal of sharps, and sterilization of medical equipment is emphasized to prevent the transmission of bloodborne diseases.