Arkansas Long Term Care Administrator Practice Exam

What type of handle must be included on bathroom fixtures in intensive care rooms?

1. Knob handles

2. Lever handles

3. Wrist action handles

4. Push buttons

The correct answer is: Wrist action handles

The inclusion of wrist action handles on bathroom fixtures in intensive care rooms is crucial for both safety and hygiene. These handles allow users to operate the faucet with a simple push or turn of the wrist, which minimizes the need for direct hand contact. This is particularly important in a healthcare setting, where the prevention of cross-contamination is essential. Patients may have limited mobility or strength, so lever or knob handles may not be as easy for them to operate. Wrist action handles also help maintain a sterile environment, as they reduce the potential for germ transmission compared to other types of handles, making them the preferred choice in intensive care units. By allowing users to turn faucets on and off with their wrist or forearm, these handles promote better hygiene practices, which is vital in preventing infections in vulnerable patient populations.