Wisconsin Nursing Home Administrators (NHA) Practice Exam

When must a new resident have a physical examination by a physician or physician extender?

1. Within 24 hours following admission

2. Within 48 hours following admission unless done within 15 days before admission

3. Within 72 hours following admission

4. Within 90 days following admission

The correct answer is: Within 48 hours following admission unless done within 15 days before admission

A new resident must have a physical examination by a physician or physician extender within 48 hours following admission unless it was done within 15 days before admission. This timeframe is crucial to ensure that the resident's health status is thoroughly assessed and appropriate care plans can be developed based on the examination results. Option A is incorrect because 24 hours might not provide sufficient time for the examination to be scheduled and conducted. Option C is incorrect as waiting 72 hours may delay necessary health interventions and the establishment of care plans. Option D is incorrect as waiting 90 days for a physical examination is too long and may put the resident's health at risk without appropriate immediate evaluation.