NCLEX · Safety and Infection Control

Which is the highest priority action when a fire is discovered in a healthcare facility?

Correct answer

Use the RACE acronym in order: Rescue clients in immediate danger, Alarm (pull fire alarm, notify staff), Contain (close doors and windows), Extinguish (only if small and safe to do so) or Evacuate

  1. A Call 911 first
  2. B Use the RACE acronym in order: Rescue clients in immediate danger, Alarm (pull fire alarm, notify staff), Contain (close doors and windows), Extinguish (only if small and safe to do so) or Evacuate
  3. C Fight the fire personally
  4. D Lock all doors

Why this is the answer

Fire safety in healthcare facilities uses the RACE acronym: R = RESCUE — clients in immediate danger first; move ambulatory clients first, then assistive clients, then non-ambulatory; A = ALARM — pull the nearest fire alarm, dial the facility emergency code, notify other staff; C = CONTAIN — close doors and windows to contain fire and smoke (a closed door significantly slows fire spread); E = EXTINGUISH (if small and safe) using the PASS technique for fire extinguishers, OR EVACUATE if fire is too large. PASS for fire extinguishers: P = Pull the pin, A = Aim at the base of the fire, S = Squeeze the handle, S = Sweep side to side. Extinguisher types: Class A (ordinary combustibles - paper, wood), Class B (flammable liquids - oil, gas), Class C (electrical), Class D (combustible metals), Class K (kitchen - cooking oils/fats); ABC extinguishers are most common in hospitals. Evacuation priority: ambulatory first (they can move themselves), wheelchair/assisted next, bedridden last (using sheets/blankets to slide them, evacuation chairs). Horizontal evacuation (to next fire compartment) before vertical (down stairs). Never use elevators during a fire.
Source: NCSBN NCLEX-PN, Fire Safety

Practice more questions

This question is from our NCLEX Practice Tests practice test. Take the full practice test to test your knowledge across all Safety and Infection Control and other topics.

Take the PN: Coordinated Care practice test →

New to this exam? Our NCLEX exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

Related questions

State-specific guides

Need information for your state? Our state guides cover local requirements, fees, and what to expect on exam day.