In efforts to boost its disaster preparedness program, improve patient care and benefit the health and safety of hospital staff, Washington, D.C.-based Washington Hospital Center revealed new technologies and designs for its emergency department, with a focus on infection control and the ability to handle large groups of new patients.
Unveiled at a press briefing Jan. 9, the “Bridge to ER One” will test innovations that include negative pressure isolation rooms to prevent the spread of infectious bacteria; walls made of Corian material to provide a cleaner environment; surfaces coated with antimicrobial material to reduce infections; and specifically designed ventilation and disinfection systems to monitor and clean circulating air.
A newly designed nursing station placed in the center of the emergency room will not only improve work flow, but also create ergonomically correct solutions to minimize the chance of a nurse incurring back pain and other musculoskeletal disorders. Desks that adjust to a health worker's height, as well as ergonomic stools that include nesting pads so nurses can rest their feet, are just some of the components of the newly designed station.