Short-term acute care hospitals (STAC) are the most common type of hospital in the country, managing urgent and serious health conditions that require immediate attention. These facilities specialize in providing high-quality, short-term care for various medical concerns, giving patients the treatment they need to stabilize and start their recovery journey.
STAC hospitals can be even more important for residents in rural areas like Adams County. Discover why and what conditions are commonly treated in facilities like these.
The Role of Short-Term Acute Care Hospitals in Rural Areas
In rural areas, short-term acute care hospitals provide access to critical medical services without the need to travel long distances. Without them, a lengthy journey during a medical crisis could jeopardize someone’s health and well-being. These local facilities help ensure timely care that saves lives when every minute counts.
Acute care hospitals act as lifelines for communities by offering:
- Medical care with access to advanced treatments and technology
- Skilled healthcare professionals, including teams of experienced doctors, nurses, and specialists who can handle urgent and complex conditions
- Modern equipment and resources to diagnose and treat a range of medical conditions efficiently
An acute care hospital within a rural community brings peace of mind to local residents, knowing critical medical support is nearby during unexpected health challenges.
Common Conditions Treated in Short-Term Acute Care Hospitals
Short-term acute care hospitals can treat various health concerns, including injuries, infections, and serious health concerns like cancer. The facility provides immediate medical care, often with the goal of transitioning patients to a long-term care facility or stabilizing them so they can return home. The average stay in an acute care facility is usually between one and three days, though it may be longer depending on the condition.
Here are five common conditions treated in short-term acute care hospitals:
Severe Infections
Conditions like pneumonia, sepsis, or a complex urinary tract infection can require immediate medical treatment and close monitoring. Short-term acute care facilities have the resources to administer intravenous antibiotics, manage any complications, and provide constant care to help patients fight infections.
Post-Surgical Recovery
Patients recovering from major surgeries, like joint replacements, abdominal surgeries, or heart procedures, often require specialized aftercare. Acute care hospitals can help them manage post-surgical pain, monitor for complications, and support healing. It’s a safe, controlled environment for the initial recovery phase.
Acute Cardiac Events
Heart attacks, arrhythmias, and congestive heart failure are life-threatening conditions that require immediate medical attention. Short-term acute care hospitals have advanced cardiac monitoring systems and experienced healthcare professionals who can stabilize patients experiencing a cardiac event and start life-saving treatments.
Respiratory Distress
Conditions like COPD, asthma, and other breathing difficulties can escalate quickly if they aren’t treated properly. Short-term acute care hospitals have the tools and expertise to provide oxygen therapy, respiratory treatments, and close monitoring that can help patients breathe easier.
Traumatic Injuries
Severe injuries from accidents, falls, or other incidents could require immediate medical care. Acute care hospitals can stabilize patients with fractures, concussions, or lacerations. Prompt treatment can prevent further complications and help the patients recover faster.
High-Quality Care When and Where You Need It Most
East Adams Rural Healthcare proudly serves the community as a trusted short-term acute care facility. Our team delivers compassionate, high-quality care tailored to each patient’s individual needs. You can learn more about our acute care hospital on our website, along with all of our other healthcare services, including cardiology, pain management, and rehabilitation therapy.
Have questions? Contact our team. We’re here to help you get the quality care you need.
