Safety and Comfort: Design Strategies for a Patient-Centered Healthcare Spaces

Designing spaces for the healthcare industry can be a balancing act. You need to ensure patients feel welcome and are comfortable whilst ensuring the healthcare practitioners have everything they need to do their job and maintain a clean environment for patients.

Regarding healthcare spaces, safety and comfort are two of the most critical factors to consider. Patients come to healthcare facilities to seek medical help and support, and their environment must be conducive to their healing process.

This blog will explore design strategies for creating patient-centred healthcare spaces prioritising safety and comfort. From the layout of the waiting area to the materials used in the examination rooms, every design element plays a crucial role in ensuring a positive patient experience.

By the end of this blog, you will have a deeper understanding of how design can impact patient outcomes and be better equipped to create healthcare spaces that meet the needs of both patients and healthcare practitioners.

Patients Come First in Design

The focus in healthcare should always be the patient, whether it's a retirement home, dentist's office, or hospital. Healthcare spaces must be designed for patient's needs and preferences to ensure they feel comfortable, safe, and supported during treatment.

One of the primary reasons why patient-centred design is so important is that it can enhance the patient experience. Patients who feel comfortable and at ease in their surroundings are more likely to have positive health outcomes and feel satisfied with their care.

Design for Accessibility

Accessibility is a key consideration when designing spaces for healthcare. Whether that means ramps, stair lifts, or even elevators, healthcare spaces must be designed to accommodate patients of all abilities. It is essential that patients with physical disabilities, visual or auditory impairments, or cognitive impairments can access and use healthcare facilities comfortably and independently.

One important consideration when designing healthcare spaces is the layout of the facility. The layout should provide straightforward navigation for all patients. Clear signage and wayfinding aids can be used to help patients navigate the facility, and tactile indicators can be used to help patients with visual impairments. Additionally, furniture and equipment placement should be carefully considered to ensure enough space for patients using mobility aids, such as wheelchairs or walkers.

Sustainability in Healthcare Facilities

Sustainability in healthcare fitouts is essential for both environmental and operational reasons. Healthcare facilities have a significant environmental footprint due to their high energy consumption, water usage, and waste production. Integrating sustainable practices can drastically reduce this impact, making healthcare operations more environmentally friendly. Using energy-efficient lighting, HVAC systems, and renewable energy sources can lower energy consumption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Water conservation measures, such as low-flow fixtures and efficient irrigation systems, help in reducing water usage. Sustainable materials, like recycled or locally sourced products, minimize the depletion of natural resources and reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Additionally, waste management strategies, including recycling programs and proper disposal of hazardous materials, are crucial for reducing the environmental impact. These sustainable practices not only benefit the environment but also lead to cost savings for healthcare facilities through reduced utility bills and operational costs. Furthermore, a commitment to sustainability can enhance the reputation of healthcare institutions, demonstrating their dedication to the well-being of both patients and the planet. Ultimately, incorporating sustainability into healthcare fitouts is vital for creating a healthier, more sustainable future for all especially patients.

Colour and Lighting in Healthcare Facilities

Often overlooked by many, the colour and lighting of healthcare facilities can have a notable impact on patient well-being. These elements are essential in creating a calming and comfortable environment for patients, especially those already feeling anxious or stressed due to their medical condition.

The use of colour can significantly impact patient perception and emotions. For example, bright and bold colours can create an energising and stimulating environment, whereas soft and muted colours can be calming. In healthcare spaces, it is essential to use calming and soothing colours, such as shades of blue, green, and lavender, which have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety.

Similarly, lighting can affect patients' moods and overall well-being. Proper lighting can help to create a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere, while poor lighting can increase stress and anxiety. In healthcare spaces, providing ample natural light and using warm, soft lighting in patient rooms and common areas is essential. This type of lighting can create a more welcoming and comfortable environment for patients, which can help to improve their overall well-being.

Design to Foster Community

This strategy is predominantly relevant towards retirement homes but holds for many other healthcare facilities. Promoting a sense of community can significantly benefit patients, providing social support and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.

One effective way to create a community within healthcare spaces is by designing communal areas. These spaces can serve as gathering places for patients, where they can interact with one another and participate in group activities. Some examples of communal areas might include a shared living room, dining hall, or outdoor courtyard.

In addition to communal areas and group activities, healthcare facilities can prioritise communication and collaboration among staff members. When staff members work together effectively, they can provide better patient care and create a more supportive environment. This might involve regular staff meetings, clear communication channels, and shared goals and objectives.

Designing for Safety

One of the more crucial aspects that designers must consider for the healthcare industry is safety. In healthcare spaces, safety is paramount, as patients, healthcare professionals, and visitors depend on a safe environment to facilitate care delivery. As such, designers must be intentional in their approach to creating safe healthcare spaces.

One strategy for designing for safety in healthcare spaces is using slip-resistant flooring. Healthcare spaces can be prone to spills, creating a hazardous environment, particularly in high-traffic areas. Slip-resistant flooring can help to reduce the risk of slips and falls, which is a common cause of injuries in healthcare settings. The flooring is typically made of materials with a high coefficient of friction, which provides a better grip for shoes and reduces the likelihood of falls.

Another strategy is the use of handrails. Handrails are essential in healthcare spaces, particularly where patients may be unsteady on their feet, such as in hallways, stairs, and bathrooms. Handrails can provide support and stability, which can help to reduce the risk of falls and improve the safety of patients and staff. When designing handrails, it is important to consider the height, location, and materials used to ensure they are effective and compliant with regulations.

What are some examples of successful patient-centred healthcare spaces?
Oakland Care, Lady Allum and Tooth Co are all examples of successful patient-centred healthcare spaces that aim to provide high-quality care while prioritising the needs and preferences of patients. Have a look at our work to find out how we can help.

How can healthcare providers work with designers to prioritise patient safety and comfort? Healthcare providers can work with designers to prioritise patient safety and comfort by consulting design professionals specialising in healthcare environments. For example, the team at Zoosh Studio is a group of designers and healthcare professionals who work together to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces.