Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

What is the maximum distance a nursing station should be from any patient room it serves?

1. 60 feet

2. 90 feet

3. 120 feet

4. 150 feet

The correct answer is: 120 feet

In a nursing home setting, the distance from a nursing station to the patient rooms it serves is crucial for ensuring quick access to residents, which can significantly impact response times for care and emergencies. A distance of 120 feet strikes a balance between maintaining an organized workflow within the nursing station and allowing staff to promptly assist residents when necessary. This distance enables nurses and caregivers to be within a manageable range, facilitating efficient monitoring and reducing the time it takes to attend to the needs of the residents. Distances shorter than 120 feet might create overcrowding or a lack of privacy, while longer distances, such as those exceeding this measure, can hinder timely responses to residents' requirements. Consequently, the guideline of 120 feet helps optimize both operational effectiveness and the quality of resident care.