Which of the following is a common way to become infected with a bloodborne pathogen?

Becoming infected with a bloodborne pathogen typically occurs through exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. One of the most common and prevalent methods of transmission is through contact with mucous membranes, which include the eyes, nose, and mouth. When bodily fluids that carry these pathogens enter the body through these membranes, it can lead to infection.

The other options presented involve transmission methods that are not relevant to bloodborne pathogens. For instance, drinking contaminated water and consuming infected food relate more to waterborne or foodborne pathogens. Similarly, touching infected surfaces could lead to surface-transmitted infections, but bloodborne pathogens require direct contact with infected bodily fluids. This makes exposure through mucous membranes the most applicable and significant route for infection with bloodborne pathogens.