Ohio Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

What should emergency food supplies include based on guidelines?

1. 2 days worth of perishables

2. 7 days worth of staples for the number of residents in the building

3. 5 days worth of perishables

4. 7 days worth of non-perishable food items

The correct answer is: 7 days worth of staples for the number of residents in the building

Emergency food supplies should include enough provisions to sustain all residents for a minimum of 7 days. The guidelines emphasize preparing for various situations where access to fresh food may be interrupted, making it critical to stock adequate staples that can meet the nutritional needs of individuals in a facility. This reasoning underscores the importance of planning for both short-term and potential longer-term emergencies. An adequate supply of staples ensures that residents have access to essential nutrients during a crisis, which is crucial for maintaining health and well-being. While perishables can provide nutritional value, they often have shorter shelf lives and may not be practical for emergency situations lasting more than a few days. Therefore, stocking a sufficient quantity of non-perishable food items becomes essential, as they can last longer and remain safe for consumption over extended periods without refrigeration. This approach aligns with best practices for emergency preparedness in healthcare settings such as nursing homes.