New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Exam

What type of transmission occurs when blood from a patient contaminates an ambulance stretcher and indirectly infects another EMT?

1. Direct contact

2. Indirect contact

3. Airborne transmission

4. Vector-borne transmission

The correct answer is: Indirect contact

The situation described involves blood from a patient contaminating an ambulance stretcher, which then poses a risk of infection to another EMT. This scenario fits the definition of indirect contact transmission. Indirect contact transmission occurs when pathogens are transferred from an infected person to a contaminated surface or object, and then subsequently to another person who touches that surface or object. In this case, the stretcher serves as the intermediary surface that harbors the infectious agent, allowing for the possibility of the EMT becoming infected after coming into contact with the contaminated stretcher. Understanding this type of transmission is crucial because it highlights the importance of proper sanitation and personal protective equipment (PPE) in preventing the spread of infections in healthcare settings. Direct contact transmission involves immediate physical contact between an infected person and another person, which is not the case here. Airborne transmission refers to pathogens that are spread through the air, often via droplets that can be inhaled. Vector-borne transmission involves the transfer of pathogens via a vector, such as insects or animals, which is also not applicable in this scenario. Thus, the described situation clearly aligns with indirect contact transmission.