Route of infection of Hepatitis C is:

Appeared in: IGNOU PB Bsc Nsg.Entrance-2026

Explanation

Hepatitis C (HCV) is a blood-borne virus.
The primary mode of transmission is parenteral, which means it is spread through direct contact with infected blood.
Common examples of parenteral transmission include sharing needles for intravenous drug use, accidental needle-stick injuries in healthcare settings, and receiving contaminated blood products.
While sexual and perinatal (mother-to-child) transmission can occur, they are much less efficient and less common compared to parenteral exposure.

Option B: The fecal-oral route involves the ingestion of contaminated food or water. This is not how Hepatitis C is transmitted.
Option C: Droplet transmission involves respiratory droplets spread by coughing or sneezing. Hepatitis C is not a respiratory virus.
Option D: Airborne transmission involves the inhalation of infectious particles that remain suspended in the air. Hepatitis C is not transmitted this way.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Transmission route of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Understanding the parenteral route of HCV transmission is critical for implementing Standard Precautions in all healthcare settings to prevent occupational exposure.
Nurses play a key role in educating patients about risk factors for HCV, such as avoiding sharing needles, razors, or toothbrushes.
Screening of blood and blood products is a major public health intervention that has drastically reduced transfusion-associated hepatitis C.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question, which is asking for the transmission route of a specific pathogen: Hepatitis C.
This is a factual recall question. Access your knowledge of communicable diseases and microbiology.
Recall that hepatitis viruses have different modes of transmission. Hepatitis A and E are primarily fecal-oral.
Remember that Hepatitis B, C, and D are primarily blood-borne (parenteral).
Evaluate the given options. 'Parenteral' directly matches the known transmission route for Hepatitis C.
Eliminate the other options: 'Faecal-oral' is for HAV/HEV, and 'Droplet'/'Air-Borne' are for respiratory infections.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 2 pp. 559-561, 556-558

Practise the full IGNOU PB Bsc Nsg.Entrance-2026

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.