When there is a likelihood of occupational exposure, health care workers should refrain from:

The correct answer focuses on the critical importance of maintaining a safe and hygienic work environment in healthcare settings, particularly where there is a risk of occupational exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials.

When healthcare workers eat, drink, or apply cosmetics in areas where exposure to these infectious materials may occur, they increase the risk of transferring pathogens from contaminated surfaces or hands to their mouths, eyes, or other mucous membranes. This behavior can lead to infections, which is why strict protocols advise against such actions in patient care areas.

While washing hands is a fundamental part of infection control that should be performed frequently to minimize the risk of pathogen transmission, the other actions related to eating, drinking, and applying cosmetics directly compromise personal safety and hygiene standards.

Thus, the emphasis is on prohibiting these specific activities in areas where there is a potential for exposure to ensure the health and safety of healthcare workers.