Arkansas Long Term Care Administrator Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a requirement for intensive care rooms?

1. Location near the nurses' station

2. Having a bathroom

3. Having a window

4. Equipped with wrist action handles

The correct answer is: Having a window

The requirement that intensive care rooms must have a window is often not considered essential for their designation. Intensive care units (ICUs) focus primarily on providing critical care, monitoring, and immediate accessibility to healthcare providers, which means operational efficiency and proximity to medical staff are prioritized. While natural light can be beneficial for patient wellness, especially in terms of psychological well-being, it is not a strict necessity for the functionality of an intensive care room. On the other hand, being located near the nurses' station is vital for quick response times to patient needs. Having a bathroom can also be important for patient comfort and hygiene, particularly for long-term stays. Additionally, equipping rooms with wrist action handles can improve safety and ease of movement for both staff and patients, particularly in emergency situations. All these elements contribute more directly to effective patient care than the presence of a window.