According to OBRA 1987, how many hours per day must a registered nurse be on duty?

According to OBRA 1987, how many hours per day must a registered nurse be on duty?

• A. 4 consecutive hours
• B. 6 consecutive hours
• C. 8 consecutive hours
• D. 10 consecutive hours

Answer: (C)

Under the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1987, the requirement is that a registered nurse (RN) be on duty for a minimum of eight consecutive hours each day. This regulation is designed to ensure that there is sufficient nursing staff available to provide adequate care for residents in long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes. Having a nurse on duty for at least eight hours ensures that residents have access to professional healthcare and oversight during part of the day, thereby enhancing patient safety and quality of care. Other options provided fall short of this minimum standard set by OBRA. The law aims to establish a baseline for nursing care, making sure that there is enough supervision and assistance for residents, especially those with complex medical needs. Overall, ensuring that a registered nurse is available for eight consecutive hours supports a stable and well-monitored care environment.

Under the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1987, the requirement is that a registered nurse (RN) be on duty for a minimum of eight consecutive hours each day. This regulation is designed to ensure that there is sufficient nursing staff available to provide adequate care for residents in long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes. Having a nurse on duty for at least eight hours ensures that residents have access to professional healthcare and oversight during part of the day, thereby enhancing patient safety and quality of care.

Other options provided fall short of this minimum standard set by OBRA. The law aims to establish a baseline for nursing care, making sure that there is enough supervision and assistance for residents, especially those with complex medical needs. Overall, ensuring that a registered nurse is available for eight consecutive hours supports a stable and well-monitored care environment.