CHC Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the CHC exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 CHC Exam Format at a Glance
📚 CHC Topics to Study (59)
✍️ Sample CHC Questions & Answers
1. Which edition of the FGI Guidelines is legally enforceable on a healthcare construction project?
States adopt specific editions of the FGI Guidelines through a formal regulatory process. A project must comply with the edition the jurisdiction has legally adopted, regardless of whether a newer edition has since been published. Always verify the adopted edition with the applicable state health department.
2. During healthcare construction, which interim life safety measure (ILSM) is typically required when a fire alarm system is impaired for more than 4 hours?
A 24-hour fire watch is required when a fire alarm system is impaired for more than 4 hours per NFPA 101 and Joint Commission standards.
3. What is the purpose of the NFPA 99 code?
NFPA 99, "Health Care Facilities Code," establishes criteria for levels of healthcare services or systems based on risk to patients, staff, or visitors. It specifically addresses the safe installation, inspection, testing, and maintenance of electrical systems, medical gas and vacuum systems, and other essential life safety systems within healthcare facilities. Adherence to NFPA 99 is critical to ensure the continuous and safe operation of vital patient care equipment and environments.
4. What is the primary compliance risk when a healthcare contractor fails to obtain a building permit before starting structural work?
Performing structural work without a required permit can result in stop-work orders, monetary fines, and orders to demolish non-permitted construction that cannot be inspected in place.
5. Per FGI Guidelines, what is the minimum clear floor space required between the foot of a patient bed and the opposite wall in a single-bed inpatient room?
The FGI Guidelines require a minimum of 6 feet of clear floor space at the foot of the bed to allow for patient transfer and equipment movement.
6. Which medical gas is distributed at significantly higher pipeline pressure (approximately 160–185 psig) compared to oxygen and medical air (50–55 psig)?
Nitrogen is distributed at approximately 160–185 psig to power high-speed pneumatic surgical instruments, while most other medical gases operate at 50–55 psig.