How many receptacles must each general care area or patient bed location have?

In healthcare settings, particularly in general care areas or patient bed locations, the National Electrical Code (NEC) and specific guidelines from healthcare authorities dictate that a minimum number of receptacles are necessary to ensure patient safety and accessibility.

Choosing four receptacles for each general care area or patient bed location is appropriate because it allows for flexible placement and access to power for various medical devices, which might include bedside monitors, infusion pumps, and personal electronic devices used by patients or caregivers. This quantity is established to ensure that sufficient outlets are available for medical equipment while reducing the risk of overloading any single receptacle.

Additionally, having multiple receptacles ensures that patients and caregivers can effectively use necessary electrical appliances without the need for extension cords, which can pose safety hazards. Therefore, the choice of four receptacles aligns with the standards intended to prioritize safety and functionality in medical environments.