A client is trying to deal with an increase in the inpatient census. Which option is NOT viable?

A client is trying to deal with an increase in the inpatient census. Which option is NOT viable?

• A. increasing utilization rates
• B. decreasing utilization rates
• C. expanding capacity
• D. improving discharge planning

Answer: (B)

When inpatient census rises, the goal is to free beds and move patients through the system more efficiently. Expanding capacity adds beds or staff to accommodate more patients when demand is high. Improving discharge planning speeds up the return of beds to availability by coordinating post-acute care and ensuring patients are discharged promptly when safe. Increasing utilization of the existing beds means driving faster patient flow—shortening unnecessary stays and turning beds over more quickly so the same space serves more patients over time. Decreasing utilization rates, however, would mean admitting fewer patients or delaying care, which reduces access to needed inpatient services and isn’t a viable solution to a growing census.

When inpatient census rises, the goal is to free beds and move patients through the system more efficiently. Expanding capacity adds beds or staff to accommodate more patients when demand is high. Improving discharge planning speeds up the return of beds to availability by coordinating post-acute care and ensuring patients are discharged promptly when safe. Increasing utilization of the existing beds means driving faster patient flow—shortening unnecessary stays and turning beds over more quickly so the same space serves more patients over time. Decreasing utilization rates, however, would mean admitting fewer patients or delaying care, which reduces access to needed inpatient services and isn’t a viable solution to a growing census.