How long must a hospital run under an emergency situation?

• A. 24 hours
• B. 48 hours
• C. 72 hours
• D. 96 hours

Answer: (C)

In disaster planning, a hospital must be able to continue providing essential care using on-site resources for a set period before outside help fully arrives. The 72-hour window is the standard benchmark because it covers the initial phase of a disaster where power, water, fuel, and medical supplies may be strained, while staff adapt and mutual aid or external supply chains begin to mobilize. This timeframe gives the hospital time to activate emergency power, protect patient safety, and stabilize operations while awaiting replenishment and support.

Choosing shorter windows like 24 or 48 hours risks running into critical shortages before relief can come, while a much longer window would imply sustaining even more extensive resources than typically required. Thus, 72 hours is the best fit, reflecting a practical, widely used standard for self-sufficiency during emergencies.