California Nursing Home Administrator License Practice Exam

What temperature must be maintained to ensure resident comfort during awake hours?

1. 65 degrees

2. 70 degrees

3. 72 degrees

4. 77 degrees

The correct answer is: 72 degrees

Maintaining a comfortable temperature for residents in a nursing home is crucial for their well-being, especially during daytime hours when they are awake and active. A temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit is generally considered optimal for comfort in healthcare settings, balancing warmth and the need for adequate air circulation. This temperature is warm enough to prevent residents from feeling cold, which can affect their mobility and overall comfort, yet cool enough to avoid overheating, which can be particularly uncomfortable and potentially harmful to individuals with certain health conditions. In a nursing home environment, where residents may have varied health conditions and sensitivities, ensuring a temperature of around 72 degrees helps create a stable and pleasant indoor climate. It supports the comfort of the residents, fosters a conducive environment for social interaction and activities, and can minimize the stress associated with temperature extremes, thereby promoting overall health and wellness.