Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

What kind of electrical receptacles are required near each bed in a patient room built before 1969?

1. Type A

2. Type B

3. Duplex

4. Standard

The correct answer is: Duplex

In patient rooms built before 1969, the requirement for electrical receptacles near each bed is for duplex receptacles. Duplex receptacles are designed to accommodate multiple plugs and provide greater flexibility for electrical devices, which is essential in a healthcare setting where various equipment may be needed at the bedside. Prior to 1969, electrical codes differed, and many facilities did not have the more modern safety features that come with newer types of receptacles unless specifically updated. The duplex receptacle is advantageous because it reduces the number of extension cords that may be needed, thus enhancing safety in patient areas by minimizing potential trip hazards and ensuring proper grounding. Type A and Type B receptacles are specific types used for different purposes and would not meet the general requirement for patient care facilities as fully as the duplex option does. "Standard" is a vague term without a specific definition in this context and may not refer to a type of receptacle that is compliant with the necessary safety codes in a healthcare setting. Therefore, duplex receptacles are the mandated choice for providing safe and adequate electrical access near each bed in those older patient rooms.