Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

If a patient is admitted on a Friday, what is the examination timeframe?

1. Within 48 hours

2. Within 72 hours

3. Within 5 days

4. Within 10 days

The correct answer is: Within 48 hours

The examination timeframe for a patient admitted to a nursing home is typically within 72 hours. This standard allows healthcare facilities to promptly assess and develop a care plan tailored to the patient's immediate needs. In many regulations, including those for intermediate care facilities, the requirement is set explicitly to ensure a timely evaluation of the patient's condition, medication needs, and appropriate interventions. While the 48-hour timeframe in the selected answer might seem reasonable, it does not align with common regulations or practices across nursing homes. 72 hours clearly denotes a balance between promptness in care and the practicalities involved in assessing a new patient comprehensively. This timeframe acknowledges the complexities of conducting a thorough initial assessment within a busy facility environment. The other options, such as a five-day or ten-day period, extend beyond the expected timeframe, which could delay necessary interventions and affect the quality of care provided to residents.