Tow Truck Operator Certification Practice Exam

Which two blood-born pathogens should tow operators be particularly aware of?

1. HIV and Malaria

2. HIV and HBV

3. HCV and HPV

4. HBV and C. difficile

The correct answer is: HIV and HBV

Tow operators should particularly be aware of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and HBV (Hepatitis B Virus) due to the significant risks these pathogens pose in situations of exposure to blood or bodily fluids, which can occur in accidents or incidents involving vehicles. HIV is a virus that attacks the body's immune system and can lead to AIDS, while HBV is a serious liver infection that can cause chronic health issues. Both pathogens can be transmitted through direct exposure to infected blood and body fluids, which might happen during rescue operations or when handling people involved in accidents. Other options provide different pathogens that do not present the same level of concern for tow operators. For example, while C. difficile is a bacterium associated with gastrointestinal issues, it is not transmitted through blood. Similarly, Malaria requires transmission through a mosquito vector, and HPV is primarily transmitted through skin-to-skin contact and does not pose the same immediate risk in a first-response or rescue scenario. HCV (Hepatitis C Virus) is concerning as well, but HBV's stronger possibility of transmission in blood exposure situations makes the combination of HIV and HBV particularly critical knowledge for tow operators.