ASHE Planning, Design, and Construction Questions and Answers

Question 1

According to the Facility Guidelines Institute (FGI), what is the primary purpose of a functional program in the pre-design phase of a healthcare construction project?

Accepted Answer

To communicate the owner's intent, operational needs, and project scope to the design team.

Answer

To provide a detailed architectural and engineering schematic for the facility.

Answer

To secure project funding and approval from financial stakeholders.

Answer

To select the construction contractor and finalize building material specifications.

Question 2

A hospital is renovating an area to create a new Airborne Infection Isolation (AII) room. According to ANSI/ASHRAE/ASHE Standard 170, which ventilation requirement is essential for this space?

Accepted Answer

Negative air pressure relative to adjacent areas with direct exhaust to the outdoors.

Answer

Positive air pressure relative to adjacent areas.

Answer

A minimum of 4 total air changes per hour (ACH).

Answer

Direct recirculation of exhaust air into the main hospital HVAC system.

Question 3

During a multi-phase renovation project in an active hospital, which of the following is the most critical function of a properly implemented Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA)?

Accepted Answer

To identify patient risk groups and define specific infection control precautions for construction activities.

Answer

To finalize the project budget and construction timeline.

Answer

To select the most durable and aesthetically pleasing finishes.

Answer

To coordinate staff parking and temporary facility access points.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the role of a multidisciplinary team during the planning and design phases of a new healthcare facility?

Accepted Answer

The team brings together clinicians, facility managers, architects, and engineers to ensure the design meets clinical, operational, and safety needs.

Answer

The team is primarily composed of architects and engineers who focus on code compliance.

Answer

The team's main function is to review and approve the final construction budget.

Answer

The team consists only of senior hospital executives to define high-level strategic goals.

Question 5

What is the primary goal of the commissioning (Cx) process for a newly constructed hospital wing?

Accepted Answer

To systematically verify and document that building systems perform according to the owner's project requirements and design intent.

Answer

To verify that the construction cost did not exceed the initial budget.

Answer

To ensure the aesthetic and interior design elements match the original renderings.

Answer

To accelerate the construction schedule and achieve early occupancy.

Question 6

A project team is designing a new operating room. According to ANSI/ASHRAE/ASHE Standard 170, which of the following air pressure relationships and minimum total air changes per hour (ACH) is required?

Accepted Answer

Positive pressure; 20 ACH

Answer

Negative pressure; 15 ACH

Answer

Neutral pressure; 20 ACH

Answer

Positive pressure; 12 ACH