What should a nurse working in a public nonprofit hospital understand?

QUESTION

What should a nurse working in a public nonprofit hospital understand?

1. The hospital is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange.
2. The hospital provides care only if the patient has the ability to pay.
3. Federal, state, or local governments govern this type of hospital.
4. The hospital is owned by a voluntary board of trustees.

ANSWER:

Correct Answer: 3

Federal, state, or local government agencies govern public nonprofit hospitals, which provide care regardless of the patient’s ability to pay. Private for-profit hospitals are owned by private investors to make profits. For-profit organizations have shareholders who invest money and expect a return on investment. Private- not-for-profit hospitals are owned by a voluntary board of trustees to provide care for both paying clients and those who require charitable care.