California Nursing Home Administrator License Practice Exam

How long must hot foods be kept at a maintained temperature before serving to comply with health regulations?

1. 5 minutes

2. 10 minutes

3. 15 minutes

4. 30 minutes

The correct answer is: 15 minutes

Health regulations typically require that hot foods be maintained at a specific temperature for a certain duration to ensure food safety and limit the risk of foodborne illnesses. The correct answer indicates that hot foods must be kept at a maintained temperature for at least 15 minutes before serving. This timeframe is crucial because it helps to ensure that the food remains at a safe internal temperature, allowing for bacteria to be effectively controlled and minimizing the risk of contamination. Maintaining this duration allows facilities to adhere to proper food safety standards, which is essential in a nursing home environment where residents may have compromised immune systems. Ensuring that food is served at the appropriate temperature for the recommended time helps protect the health and well-being of the residents. Other time frames, such as 5, 10, or 30 minutes, might not meet the same safety standards required by health regulations, possibly exposing residents to food safety risks. It's important for nursing home administrators to be familiar with these regulations to maintain a safe and healthy environment for their residents.