Care Manager Certification Practice Exam

In the chain of infection, what is the role of a client's mouth in cases of hepatitis A transmission?

1. Reservoir

2. Infectious agent

3. Portal of entry

4. Susceptible host

The correct answer is: Portal of entry

The role of a client's mouth in cases of hepatitis A transmission is as a portal of entry. In the context of infectious diseases, the portal of entry is the route through which the infectious agent (in this case, the hepatitis A virus) enters the body. Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, meaning that the virus can be ingested through contaminated food or water, or by oral contact with contaminated surfaces. When the hepatitis A virus enters the body through the mouth, it establishes infection and can then lead to disease. In this scenario, while the mouth itself is not the source of the virus (hence not a reservoir or infectious agent), it is a critical point through which the virus can access the gastrointestinal system and subsequently the bloodstream, contributing to the infection process. The mouth can facilitate the entry of contaminated substances, showcasing its role in the chain of infection related to hepatitis A. Understanding the chain of infection is essential for implementing effective preventive measures and controlling the spread of the virus, especially in populations at risk or during outbreaks.