Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

For interior stairways or ramps, how many sides must have a handrail?

1. One side

2. Both sides

3. Only on wide ramps

4. No handrails are required

The correct answer is: Both sides

Handrails are essential for providing support and preventing falls, particularly on interior stairways and ramps where the potential for injury can be significant. The requirement for handrails on both sides of stairways or ramps is grounded in safety regulations and building codes, which aim to protect all users, regardless of their physical capabilities. Having handrails on both sides ensures that individuals have access to support when ascending or descending, which is particularly important for those who may have difficulties with balance or mobility. In many cases, building codes emphasize that handrails should be present on both sides of stairs and ramps to accommodate various user needs. This dual-handed access allows individuals to use whichever hand is most comfortable or functional for them, enhancing safety and usability. The other responses do not align with standard safety practices. Having a handrail only on one side would not offer the same level of safety as providing handrails on both sides. The stipulation regarding wide ramps does not reflect general code requirements, as handrails are necessary for ramps of all widths. Lastly, suggesting that no handrails are required at all contradicts fundamental safety principles in facility design, especially in environments such as nursing homes where residents may have diverse physical abilities.