Missouri State Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

What is the minimum width of exit doors in new facilities?

1. 36 inches

2. 42 inches

3. 44 inches

4. 48 inches

The correct answer is: 44 inches

The requirement for the minimum width of exit doors in new facilities is crucial for ensuring safety and accessibility. In most building codes and healthcare facility regulations, including those applicable to nursing homes, a minimum width of 44 inches is mandated for exit doors. This width allows for the safe and efficient evacuation of individuals during emergencies, particularly in facilities where people may have mobility issues or where there may be a high volume of individuals needing to exit simultaneously. The 44-inch width is designed to accommodate wheelchairs, stretchers, and other mobility devices, ensuring that all residents and visitors can evacuate quickly and safely. This standard reflects the necessity of providing broader exit pathways in settings that serve vulnerable populations, such as nursing homes, where the ability to evacuate efficiently is critical in emergencies. While other widths, such as 36 or 42 inches, may be acceptable in different types of buildings or less critical areas, the specific requirement of 44 inches for exit doors in new facilities mitigates risks associated with crowding and delays during evacuation, thus improving overall safety in healthcare settings.