Athletic Training Practice Exam

What recommendation can prevent the spread of impetigo among athletes?

1. Clean his clothes daily with bleach

2. Wear gloves

3. Prevent others from borrowing his clothing or using his towels

4. Cover his mouth when coughing

The correct answer is: Prevent others from borrowing his clothing or using his towels

Preventing the spread of impetigo, a contagious skin infection caused by bacteria, is crucial in athletic settings where close contact is common. The recommendation to prevent others from borrowing clothing or using towels is particularly effective because impetigo can spread through direct contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces. When athletes share personal items such as clothes or towels, they significantly increase the risk of transmitting the bacteria that cause impetigo. By enforcing the practice of not sharing these items, the likelihood of a widespread outbreak among athletes can be minimized. While other options may promote general hygiene, they do not specifically address the primary mode of transmission for impetigo, which is through direct contact with an infected person's skin or their belongings. Therefore, keeping personal items exclusive to individuals — especially in a close-contact environment like athletics — is vital for controlling the infection spread.