Answer:
Direct contact transmission occurs when pathogens are transferred between individuals without a contaminated intermediate person, object, or environmental surface. For example, when blood or other potentially infectious materials from an infected person enters the body of a susceptible person through direct contact with mucous membrane or breaks in the skin, e.g., when pathogens are transferred from a patient to a HCP during ungloved contact with mucous membrane or skin.
Indirect contact transmission occurs when pathogens are transferred between individuals via a contaminated intermediate person, object, or environmental surface. For example, when the hands of HCP become contaminated and hand hygiene is not performed prior to touching the next patient; when contaminated patient-care items are shared between patients without having been adequately cleaned, disinfected, or sterilized; or in association with contaminated sharps and needlestick injuries.
Explanation:
