Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL) Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The recommended number of air exchanges per hour for a negative air flow system during decontamination is 10. This standard is based on maintaining effective control over airborne contaminants and ensuring a safe environment for both patients and healthcare personnel. A negative pressure room allows air to flow into the room from adjacent spaces but prevents air from escaping into those areas, thus containing any potentially harmful particles.

This level of air exchange is crucial for diluting and removing airborne pathogens, particulates, and other contaminants during decontamination processes. Insufficient air exchanges could lead to an accumulation of contaminants, while excessive air exchanges may not significantly enhance air quality in this specific context. Thus, 10 air exchanges per hour strikes an effective balance between safety and practicality, ensuring the area is adequately cleared of contaminant particles in a reasonable time frame.