Infection Control and Interior Design: Making a Connection

Rethinking facility design to limit transmission of infections

By Dan Hounsell


As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to abate in the United States, healthcare facilities managers look for lessons related that will help them prepare for and respond to the next crisis. Among the areas of focus is interior design.  

Infection control has historically focused on reducing the spread of pathogenic microorganisms from patient to patient or from staff to patient, according to Medical Construction&Design. Scrutiny has fallen on preventing the spread of infectious diseases such as the seasonal flu, resulting in a rethinking of facility design strategies in conjunction with operational practices to limit the transmission of the virus and reduce other hospital acquired infections. This rethinking has resulted in updated best practices.

Consider the practice of screening at entryways. If a hospital does choose to perform universal screening at entry, it should occur in a well-ventilated space or even outdoors if possible. The amount of space needed for screening depends on the number of persons entering and the time required for screening. Appropriate, socially distanced queuing space might be required.



June 7, 2021


Topic Area: Interior Design


Recent Posts

Sustainability as a Baseline in Healthcare Facilities

Hospitals can balance costs, build resilience and learn from global models for sustainable design to further their green goals.


Penobscot Valley Hospital Reports Data Security Incident

It immediately implemented its incident response procedures, took steps to secure systems and hired third-party forensic specialists to assist with an investigation.


Ballad Health Acquires Land for Future Unicoi County Hospital

The new hospital is expected to feature an emergency department, 10 inpatient beds and outpatient services.


Why Healthcare Facilities Management Is Critical to Patient Safety 

Hospitals and other healthcare facilities rely on much more than doctors and nurses to keep patients safe.


Brookdale Senior Living Announces Acquisition of the Brookdale Galleria Community

The 244-unit independent living and assisted living community is located directly adjacent to The Galleria shopping and entertainment complex.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.