Thoughtful Designs Tips that Improve Staff Performance and Patients’ Road to Recovery

Posted by on Jun 2, 2016 in Behind the Design

medical room EBD (1)Healthcare designers are constantly looking for new ways to design hospitals and patient rooms. A thoughtful design approach is often referred to as Evidence Based Design or EBD.

EBD is about creating specific zones tailored to the needs and use of patients, family, and staff. Tailoring the design to those needs and use can make designs more efficient for all.

5 Thoughtful Design Tips:

  1. When thinking about the interior walls, use smooth surfaces with minimum perforations and crevices. Doing so will reduce the risk of dust and contamination.
  2. Treating joints and seams for easy cleaning and maintenance is also a good idea. It’s recommended that one uses wipeable/washable materials – especially for high-touch surfaces.
  3. For efficient delivery of care, matching medical gases and power outlets should be located on both sides of the patient’s bed.
  4. Designers can work with building architects to ensure that controls for lighting and temperature are convenient located. Verify the locations and height of outlets, equipment, and connections will provide caregivers easier access for use.
  5. Lastly, use sound-absorbent materials to reduce overall noise for the comfort of patients and families and provide patients access to electronic media for education and entertainment will also help improve patient engagement.

Source: http://www.healthcaredesignmagazine.com/blogs/debra-levin/6-evidence-based-design-strategies-medsurg-rooms