Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

How many days after admission must a copy of the chest x-ray be available for inclusion in the patient's clinical record?

1. 30 days

2. 60 days

3. 90 days

4. 120 days

The correct answer is: 90 days

The correct timeframe for having a copy of the chest x-ray available for inclusion in the patient's clinical record is 90 days after admission. This requirement aligns with regulations that ensure timely access to important diagnostic information that is crucial for patient care. A chest x-ray serves as a vital tool for assessing respiratory health and identifying potential issues such as infections, pneumonia, or other pulmonary conditions, particularly for residents in a nursing home setting. Ensuring that this information is added to the clinical record within 90 days helps healthcare professionals provide appropriate treatment and interventions based on the patient's medical condition. The other timeframes of 30 days, 60 days, and 120 days do not meet regulatory requirements, making them less suitable options. These regulations are established to promote timely record-keeping and continuity of care, which are essential in nursing home environments where residents may have complex medical needs that necessitate immediate attention and response.