Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Prometric Practice Exam

During a fire alarm, what is true regarding bedbound patients and fire doors in the unit?

1. The doors can only be opened by the fire department

2. The doors can be opened manually to remove patients, visitors, and staff

3. The doors are automatically locked and should not be opened

4. Evacuation of bedbound patients is not necessary

The correct answer is: The doors can be opened manually to remove patients, visitors, and staff

The correct response highlights the importance of safety protocols during a fire alarm, specifically regarding bedbound patients and fire doors. Fire doors are designed to contain smoke and fire, thereby protecting patients and staff from danger. In an emergency, it is crucial that these doors can be opened manually to allow for the safe and efficient removal of patients, visitors, and staff from the danger area. This action is necessary to ensure that everyone can evacuate the premises and that bedbound patients receive the assistance they need to move to safety. Understanding the manual operation of fire doors is key for caregivers during an emergency situation. It allows for greater flexibility and responsiveness in evacuating vulnerable individuals, such as those who are bedbound. Although fire doors may sometimes lock automatically as a safety measure, knowing that they can be opened manually when necessary helps ensure that staff can act swiftly during a fire alarm. In contrast, options that suggest the doors can only be opened by the fire department or should not be opened at all do not align with emergency protocols that prioritize immediate response. Additionally, suggesting that bedbound patients do not need to be evacuated undermines the seriousness of a fire situation and the potential risks involved for all individuals in the vicinity, regardless of their mobility. With this understanding,