Question

A client is diagnosed with hepatitis A. The nurse takes the client's history. Which employment history is most likely linked to the development of hepatitis A?

A. Works at a plumbing business
B. Works in a hemodialysis unit at a hospital
C. Works as a dishwasher at a local restaurant
D. Works at an occupational arsenic compound business

Answer 1

Working as a dishwasher at a local restaurant is most likely linked to the development of hepatitis A due to the fecal-oral transmission route associated with food and water contamination.

Step-by-step explanation:

The employment history most likely linked to the development of hepatitis A is C. Works as a dishwasher at a local restaurant. Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is commonly transmitted through the fecal-oral route which makes individuals working in food service, especially in positions like dishwashing where there could be an increased risk of coming into contact with contaminated items, more susceptible to contracting the virus. Hepatitis A can be spread by consuming food or water contaminated with the virus, and restaurant kitchens can be hotspots for such transmission if proper hygiene is not maintained. This is different from hepatitis B (HBV) and other forms, which are more commonly transmitted through blood and body fluids, making healthcare settings riskier in those cases.

Hepatitis A infection is known to be self-limiting and usually resolves within weeks to months. However, proper precautions including vaccination, good personal hygiene, and sanitary food handling are critical in preventing its spread.