How many foot candles are necessary at a nurse's desk for charts and records?

The correct response indicates that a level of 60 foot candles is required at a nurse's desk for charts and records. This specific illumination level is critical as it ensures that nursing staff can clearly see and read charts, records, and other important documentation while minimizing eye strain. Adequate lighting is essential in healthcare settings, where accuracy in documentation is vital for patient care and safety.

The standard of 60 foot candles has been adopted to strike a balance between sufficient brightness for visibility and overall energy efficiency within the lighting design of healthcare environments. In contrast, higher or lower levels might not provide the optimal conditions necessary for the precision required in medical documentation, which could potentially lead to errors or decreased efficiency in patient care tasks. This standard reflects the importance of maintaining an environment where healthcare professionals can perform their roles effectively and safely.