A community health nurse is reviewing information related to rural hospitals and closures. Which reason would the nurse most likely note as an issue that would force the closure of a rural hospital?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rural hospitals have a high risk for financial problems and closures, thus leaving rural clients stranded without services nearby and forcing them to drive long distances for inpatient care. Rural hospitals usually have less high-tech health care equipment and services. This may affect outcomes for clients with critical emergency situations, but this does not directly influence closure of the hospital. Rural hospitals are usually not able to attract many specialty physicians, and indeed, physician, nurse, and pharmacist shortages in rural areas make it difficult to operate a hospital. Many rural residents depend heavily on public health department services, but this is more likely an effect of lack of access to acute care services than a cause of lack of access to acute care services.

A Community Health Nurse Is Reviewing Information Related to Rural