Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

Which group has the longest average stay in long-term care facilities?

1. Men

2. Developmentally disabled

3. Caregivers

4. Residents with heart disease

The correct answer is: Developmentally disabled

The group that typically has the longest average stay in long-term care facilities is individuals with developmental disabilities. This is largely due to the nature of their conditions, which often require ongoing support and assistance throughout their lives. Developmental disabilities can include a wide range of conditions that affect physical, learning, language, or behavior skills. Because these individuals may have lifelong needs for care and support, they are more likely to require long-term placement in care facilities. In contrast, although men, caregivers, and residents with heart disease may also have extended stays, these groups generally do not require the same level of long-term, continuous care. For instance, men in long-term care may be there for shorter rehabilitation periods or acute care needs. Caregivers are generally not residents of long-term care facilities but rather the individuals providing care, and residents with heart disease may enter long-term care for specific medical management that, in some cases, could be temporary rather than ongoing. With this understanding, it is clear why those with developmental disabilities have the longest average stay in long-term care facilities, as their needs often necessitate prolonged institutional support and care.