Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

How should handrails be installed in proximity to patient areas?

1. In the middle of the corridor

2. On both sides of the corridor

3. Only on one side of the corridor

4. At least 3 feet away from the wall

The correct answer is: On both sides of the corridor

Handrails play a critical role in enhancing safety and mobility for residents in nursing homes. Installing handrails on both sides of the corridor is the best practice as it provides support to individuals regardless of their direction of travel. This setup greatly assists residents who may require assistance getting up from or down to the ground, providing them with stable support on either side of the corridor. Having handrails on both sides also accommodates various needs such as those of individuals using wheelchairs or walkers, and it creates a more accessible environment for all residents, including those who may have difficulty reaching for a handrail positioned on one side. Furthermore, this installation helps in maintaining safety standards as per regulations often set forth by healthcare and facility guidelines. Alternatives such as positioning handrails in the middle of the corridor or only on one side would limit the accessibility for some residents, preventing them from utilizing handrails effectively while moving throughout the corridor. Moreover, placing handrails at a distance from the walls may lead to confusion or additional risk as residents may struggle to reach them when they need them most.