What are common benchmarks used to assess quality of care in hospitals?

The correct choice highlights essential benchmarks for evaluating the quality of care provided in hospitals. Readmission rates are a significant indicator of the quality of health care; high readmission rates may suggest inadequate care during the initial hospital stay or insufficient follow-up care, reflecting on the effectiveness of treatment protocols and patient education.

Patient satisfaction is another critical benchmark, as it provides insights into the patients' perceptions of their care experience. This can include various aspects, such as communication with healthcare providers, comfort, and responsiveness of the staff. High patient satisfaction is often associated with better health outcomes and enhanced patient engagement in their own care.

Infection rates are also a crucial quality metric, as they indicate the level of safety and efficacy of hospital procedures. Monitoring and minimizing infection rates can demonstrate the hospital's commitment to maintaining high standards of hygiene and clinical best practices.

While the other options present valid considerations for a hospital's operation, they do not directly measure the quality of care in the same way. Staff retention rates and employee satisfaction relate more to workforce stability and morale rather than direct patient outcomes. Facility cleanliness contributes positively to patient experience but is more a component of the overall environment rather than a direct measure of care quality. Cost of care and insurance policies are critical for financial aspects but do