Which item has the highest risk of spreading bloodborne pathogens?

The item with the highest risk of spreading bloodborne pathogens is needles used for the client. Needles can directly introduce pathogens into the bloodstream through puncture wounds, making them a significant concern in healthcare settings. Bloodborne pathogens, such as HIV and hepatitis B or C, can be transmitted through contaminated needles if they are not handled or disposed of properly.

Proper handling and disposal of needles, typically through sharps containers, is critical to prevent needle-stick injuries and the subsequent potential for infection. Other items such as used gloves, contaminated clothing, and bloodied bandages also pose risks, but they primarily require surfaces or contact to transmit pathogens. Needles represent a more immediate and severe route of transmission due to their ability to bypass the skin barrier directly.