Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

According to old construction standards, what is the required ratio of lavatories and water closets for every patient bed on a floor?

1. 1:4

2. 1:6

3. 1:8

4. 1:10

The correct answer is: 1:8

The required ratio of lavatories and water closets to patient beds is crucial for maintaining adequate hygiene and sanitation in nursing facilities. According to old construction standards, a ratio of 1 lavatory and 1 water closet for every 8 patient beds ensures that residents have reasonable access to essential sanitation facilities while maintaining compliance with health regulations. This ratio allows for efficient usage and helps prevent overcrowding, which can lead to unsanitary conditions and increased risk of infection. Having too few facilities in proportion to the number of patients can strain available resources and compromise resident dignity and comfort. Other ratios would not provide the same level of amenity and hygiene management that the 1:8 ratio offers. For example, a 1:4 or 1:6 ratio would create an oversupply of sanitation facilities, perhaps at an unnecessary expense, while a 1:10 ratio would make access to these essential facilities less convenient, potentially impairing resident care. Thus, the 1:8 ratio is not only a guideline but a standard that has been established to promote the well-being of residents within the facility.