Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) Practice Test

How often should linen be changed in a residential care facility?

1. Once a month

2. Twice a month

3. Once a week

4. Every day

The correct answer is: Once a week

In a residential care facility, changing linen once a week is a standard practice that helps maintain hygiene and comfort for residents. Frequent changes are crucial to prevent the buildup of bacteria and allergens that can affect the health of elderly individuals, who may be more susceptible to infections and skin irritations. Weekly changes strike a balance between maintaining cleanliness and being practical in terms of labor and resource management. While changing linen every day would certainly keep the environment clean, it may not be necessary given that many residents may not soil their bedding daily. Conversely, changing linen once a month or twice a month would likely lead to unsanitary conditions. Regular laundering of linen helps ensure a safe and hygienic living space for residents, which is fundamental in elderly care settings.