Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) Practice Test

How is the Average Length of Stay (ALOS) calculated?

1. Total patient days divided by total discharges

2. Total discharges divided by total patient days

3. Patient days minus discharges

4. Patient census divided by number of beds

The correct answer is: Total patient days divided by total discharges

The Average Length of Stay (ALOS) is a crucial metric in healthcare management that reflects the average duration of a patient’s stay in a healthcare institution. It is calculated by taking the total number of patient days and dividing it by the total number of discharges. Patient days refer to the total days of care provided to patients, which accounts for every day a patient is admitted and receiving care. Discharges indicate the number of patients who have left the facility during a specific timeframe. By dividing the total patient days by discharges, healthcare administrators can gauge the efficiency and effectiveness of care provided, as well as identify patterns related to patient flow. This calculation provides insights into resource utilization and can influence staffing, budget considerations, and overall operational strategies within a healthcare environment. Understanding ALOS is essential for nurse managers and leaders as they strive to improve patient care while managing resources effectively.