What should be assumed about all bodily fluids?

It is essential to assume that bodily fluids may carry infectious diseases. This premise is critical in healthcare and caregiving environments to ensure safety and prevent the transmission of pathogens. Bodily fluids such as blood, saliva, urine, or feces can potentially be contaminated with infectious agents, making it crucial to exercise caution whenever they are handled.

Understanding this allows caregivers and healthcare professionals to implement appropriate infection control measures, such as wearing gloves and using proper disposal methods for waste. These precautions not only protect the person handling the fluids but also safeguard the clients and the broader community from potential health risks.

In contrast, considering bodily fluids as safe, sterile, or harmless can lead to carelessness and increase the risk of spreading infections, which is why the correct answer emphasizes the need for a careful approach.