Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

What does the term 'infectious agent' refer to in relation to infection control?

1. A. A person who is infected

2. B. Pathogens such as bacteria or viruses

3. C. The process of infection spreading

4. D. A contaminated surface

The correct answer is: B. Pathogens such as bacteria or viruses

The term 'infectious agent' refers specifically to pathogens that cause disease, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. In the context of infection control, understanding infectious agents is crucial for preventing the spread of diseases. These agents are the primary cause of illness, and identifying them is essential for implementing appropriate hygiene practices and treatments. This includes recognizing different types of pathogens and how they can affect human health, which is foundational in controlling infections within healthcare settings. The other options, while related to the context of infection control, do not accurately define 'infectious agent.' For instance, a person who is infected is referred to as a host rather than an infectious agent. The process of infection spreading refers to transmission dynamics, and a contaminated surface would be a vector or means by which infectious agents can be transmitted, not the agents themselves. Thus, the definition of infectious agents is specifically tied to the biological entities that cause disease.