Missouri State Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

How many staff members must be present on the day shift for a facility with a census of 60 for safety purposes?

1. 4

2. 5

3. 6

4. 7

The correct answer is: 6

For a nursing facility with a census of 60 residents, determining the appropriate number of staff members required on the day shift for safety purposes is crucial for ensuring proper care and supervision. The correct answer is based on guidelines or regulations that focus on the staffing needs of nursing homes, which often take into account the resident population as well as the type of care required. Typically, a higher staff-to-resident ratio is necessary to provide adequate support, respond to emergencies, and meet the daily care needs of the residents. A facility with 60 residents generally requires around six staff members on the day shift. This number is generally viewed as sufficient to cover direct care needs effectively, including nursing care, assistance with daily activities, medication management, and providing a safe environment during peak hours when residents are most active. In contrast, fewer staff members—like four or five—would likely compromise the quality of care and safety standards necessary in such a facility, potentially leading to situations where residents may not receive timely assistance or supervision. Hence, the decision to establish six staff members aligns with best practices for ensuring resident safety and adequate care in a facility of this size.