Illinois Nursing Home Administrators (NHA) Practice Exam

Which statement about nurse staffing requirements is TRUE?

1. An LPN may not serve as a charge nurse when one or more RNs are on duty at the same time

2. Every facility must have at least one RN on duty at all times

3. Every facility must have at least one licensed nurse on duty at all times on each floor housing residents

4. None of the hours on duty of the DON may count toward the required minimum of direct-care hours

The correct answer is: None of the hours on duty of the DON may count toward the required minimum of direct-care hours

The statement that every facility must have at least one licensed nurse on duty at all times on each floor housing residents is accurate according to Illinois regulations. This ensures that there is a qualified nurse available to provide care and make decisions regarding resident care, which is particularly important in a nursing home setting where residents may have complex medical needs. In nursing homes, regulatory standards frequently specify the need for ongoing assessments and immediate response to changes in resident conditions, necessitating the presence of a licensed nurse. While the other options may include certain details about staffing and supervisory roles, the requirement for a licensed nurse ensures that each floor is equipped to maintain safety and high standards of care for residents at all times. Thus, having at least one licensed nurse on each floor not only meets regulatory expectations but enhances overall resident safety and well-being.