Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

Handrails in corridors, ramps, or stairways used by patients must have ends returned to which side?

1. One side

2. Both sides

3. Neither side

4. Only the outer side

The correct answer is: Both sides

The correct answer indicates that handrails must have ends returned to both sides to enhance safety and accessibility for patients. This design feature prevents individuals from potentially getting caught or snagged on the ends of the handrails, thus reducing the risk of falls or injuries. By returning the ends to both sides, the handrail creates a smoother transition at the ends, making it more user-friendly. Having handrails that return to both sides also ensures that they can be grasped securely from either direction. This is particularly important in settings such as nursing homes, where residents may have varying levels of mobility and may approach handrails from different angles. Properly constructed handrails contribute to a safer environment, promoting independence and security for residents navigating corridors, ramps, and stairways. Considering the other options, a handrail returning only to one side would not provide the same level of safety, as it could lead to potential hazards where the end is exposed. Failing to have any return at all could create situations where individuals might accidentally bump into the ends, causing unnecessary accidents. Returning only to the outer side does not address the safety for individuals approaching the handrail from the inner side or elsewhere.