South Carolina Long Term Health Care Administrator Practice Test

What is the required staff-to-patient ratio for a CNA on the first shift?

1. 9 to 1

2. 10 to 1

3. 11 to 1

4. 12 to 1

The correct answer is: 9 to 1

The required staff-to-patient ratio for a CNA on the first shift is established based on best practices for quality care and safety in long-term health care settings. A ratio of 9 to 1 means that one Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is responsible for monitoring and attending to the needs of nine patients. This number is designed to ensure that CNAs can adequately provide personalized and timely care, which is critical during the busy hours of the first shift when many patients may require assistance with activities of daily living, medications, and other needs. Maintaining this ratio helps in preventing staff burnout and enhances the ability of CNAs to respond effectively to patient needs, ensuring higher standards of care are met. Adequate staffing is also crucial for a healthy working environment, which directly impacts patient outcomes and satisfaction levels. Therefore, having a staff-to-patient ratio of 9 to 1 reflects an understanding of both the practical needs of the patients and the operational capabilities of the facility.