How does a crisis access hospital (CAH) primarily differ from an intensive care unit (ICU)?

A crisis access hospital (CAH) is specifically designed to provide short-term emergency services, often to address immediate medical needs on an outpatient basis. The distinguishing characteristic highlighted in the correct answer is that a CAH typically serves patients for 96 hours or less, which reflects its role in acute care for individuals who need immediate treatment but are not in need of intensive or continuous care.

This shorter stay is in contrast to intensive care units (ICUs), which cater to patients requiring close monitoring and more complex care for longer durations. ICUs focus on critical or unstable patients needing extensive medical intervention and constant observation, often for prolonged periods.

While CAHs may sometimes engage in basic rehabilitation, their primary function is not long-term rehabilitation. Furthermore, CAHs do not specialize in surgical services to the extent required by operating rooms and surgical units. Lastly, CAHs are not exclusive to pediatric patients; they serve adults and children alike, further distinguishing them from specific pediatric units or hospitals. The emphasis on serving patients for a limited time is a crucial aspect of understanding the operational role of a CAH.