New York State Master Electrician Practice Exam

How many receptacles are required at each patient bed in general care areas?

1. 2 receptacles

2. 3 receptacles

3. 4 receptacles

4. 5 receptacles

The correct answer is: 4 receptacles

In general care areas of healthcare facilities, the requirement for receptacles is based on ensuring that adequate power is available for essential medical equipment and the comfort of patients. The National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies that there should be a minimum of four receptacles at each patient bed in general care areas. This standard ensures that healthcare providers have access to enough outlets to accommodate medical devices, monitors, and other necessary equipment without the need for extension cords, which can pose safety hazards. The rationale for this requirement is to address various scenarios where multiple devices may need to be plugged in simultaneously, such as IV pumps, telemetry monitors, and personal electronic devices. By providing four receptacles, the design anticipates the diverse needs of patient care while promoting safety and convenience.