Final answer:
B) 10% The average risk of Hepatitis C infection after a needlestick or exposure to infected blood is about 1.8% according to CDC guidelines. Protective measures in healthcare environments can help reduce this risk.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the average risk of infection after a needlestick or cut exposure to HCV-infected blood is approximately 1.8%. This percentage reflects the risk for healthcare workers who are potentially exposed to the virus through occupational hazards.
To prevent such infections, it's imperative for healthcare settings to implement safety protocols including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and face protection, adherence to strict sterilization procedures, and providing post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) following potential exposure to Hepatitis C.According to the CDC, the average risk of infection after a needlestick or cut exposure to infected blood is approximately 1% for Hepatitis C.