What indicates the suitability of an alternative care delivery approach in a 500-bed acute care hospital?

The correct answer highlights the average length of stay per client being 42 hours as a crucial indicator of the suitability of an alternative care delivery approach in an acute care hospital. In a 500-bed facility, the average length of stay is a key metric that can influence decisions regarding staffing models, resource allocation, and care delivery strategies. An average length of stay of 42 hours suggests a high turnover rate of patients, pointing to a fast-paced environment where efficient and effective care delivery models are necessary to ensure that patients receive timely care while maximizing hospital resources.

Utilizing an alternative care delivery approach can help in managing patient flow more efficiently, improving outcomes, and potentially reducing costs. It is essential in a setting with a shorter than average length of stay, as it implies that hospitals might face increased pressure to deliver quality care rapidly.

The other options provide some relevant information but do not directly address the operational and strategic implications of care delivery. The ratio of nurses to patients could suggest staffing adequacy but doesn't necessarily reflect how well care pathways are being implemented. Availability of specialized staff is beneficial, yet it does not give a comprehensive view of how alternatives might address the current care needs. Increased patient satisfaction scores are valuable indicators of perceived quality but do not reflect the operational