Which bloodborne pathogen is most likely to cause an actual infection after a needlestick with an infected patient?

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the bloodborne pathogen most likely to cause an actual infection after a needlestick injury with an infected patient. The risk of HBV transmission from such an exposure can be as high as 30%, particularly if the source patient is highly infectious. Other pathogens, like HIV and Hepatitis C virus, also pose risks but have lower transmission rates in comparison. Vaccination against HBV is an effective preventive measure for healthcare workers.