February 2021
Tool

Overview

Waiting rooms can influence the patient and family experience, as well as organizational efficiency. For older adults, especially those with dementia, waiting room design can unintentionally present barriers to accessing medical care and result in maladaptive behaviors and symptoms. This further contributes to the individual’s confusion, difficulty in negotiating spaces, and an increased dependence upon companions. By translating person-centered design strategies drawn from dementia-focused design interventions in residential settings, a dementia-supportive waiting room can support equitable access for the broadest range of patients in any healthcare setting.

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  • Landscaping

    Desirable Outcome
    Accessibility; ease of use
    Design Strategies
    • Views of outside nature and gardens. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize patient stress/anxiety
    Design Strategies
    • Views of outside nature and gardens. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient satisfaction
    Design Strategies
    • Use low-maintenance shrubs and plants and avoid poisonous vegetation or vegetation that is irritating to the touch as well as plants that tend to attract stinging insects citation
    • Views of outside nature and gardens. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient comfort
    Design Strategies
    • Use low-maintenance shrubs and plants and avoid poisonous vegetation or vegetation that is irritating to the touch as well as plants that tend to attract stinging insects citation
    • Views of outside nature and gardens. citation

  • Pathways

    Desirable Outcome
    Accessibility; ease of use
    Design Strategies
    • Avoid glare and excessive contrast and patterns on floors, which can be perceived as or conceal actual changes in level which pose a potential trip hazard. citation
    • Provide wainscot trim that protrudes from the wall and is securely fastened to offer a frame of reference and a touchstone for balance for level surfaces. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Caregiver safety; minimize risk of physical injury
    Design Strategies
    • Smooth, level floor surfaces with minimal variations that allow freedom of movement, especially when navigating with mobility assistance or medical equipment citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; fall/injury prevention and improved mobility
    Design Strategies
    • Avoid glare and excessive contrast and patterns on floors, which can be perceived as or conceal level changes that pose a potential trip hazard citation
    • Provide wainscot trim that protrudes from the wall and is securely fastened to offer a frame of reference and a touchstone for balance for level surfaces. citation
    • Smooth, level floor surfaces with minimal variations that allow freedom of movement, especially when navigating with mobility assistance or medical equipment citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; minimize risk of injury
    Design Strategies
    • Avoid glare and excessive contrast and patterns on floors, which can be perceived as or conceal actual changes in level which pose a potential trip hazard. citation
    • Provide wainscot trim that protrudes from the wall and is securely fastened to offer a frame of reference and a touchstone for balance for level surfaces. citation

  • Handrail

    Desirable Outcome
    Reduced risk of contamination
    Design Strategies
    • Wipe-able/washable, easy-to-clean /disinfect High Touch Surfaces with minimal joints/seams (e.g. door knobs, faucets, sinks) in the room citation

  • Layout - Overall

    Desirable Outcome
    Change-readiness/future-proofing
    Design Strategies
    • Building design that facilitates the potential changes in functional space layout (e.g., structural column location, modular layout, window modules).
    Desirable Outcome
    Improved access/wayfinding
    Design Strategies
    • Sufficient clearance (e.g., wide corridors) for wheelchair use.
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced security
    Design Strategies
    • Room doors under staff visual monitoring (visibility from nursing station)
    Desirable Outcome
    Caregiver safety; minimize risk of physical injury
    Design Strategies
    • Accommodate independent and assisted toilet transfers by included fold-down grab bars on both sides of the toilet (14" from centerline [CL] of toilet, 32" above the floor, and extended a minimum of 6" in front of the toilet) with one side open and a sidewall 24" from CL of toilet on the other. citation
    • Clear/turn space at least 5-foot by 5-foot citation
    • Layout that allows for reorganization of space (e.g., easily movable furniture, modular elements) to accommodate changing needs
    Desirable Outcome
    Efficient delivery of care
    Design Strategies
    • Accommodate independent and assisted toilet transfers by included fold-down grab bars on both sides of the toilet (14" from centerline [CL] of toilet, 32" above the floor, and extended a minimum of 6" in front of the toilet) with one side open and a sidewall 24" from CL of toilet on the other. citation
    • Easy access to sink or alcohol gel dispenser in care areas.
    • Layout that allows for reorganization of space (e.g., easily movable furniture, modular elements) to accommodate changing needs
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize patient stress/anxiety
    Design Strategies
    • Access to positive/meaningful distractions (e.g., nature-themed artwork, window with views of nature, music, TV, Internet, reading materials)
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.) citation
    • Unappealing elements hidden from view (trash cans, soiled linen, scrub basin, sharps container, etc.)
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize undue strain during recovery
    Design Strategies
    • Clear/turn space at least 5-foot by 5-foot citation
    • Layout that allows for reorganization of space (e.g., easily movable furniture, modular elements) to accommodate changing needs
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient satisfaction
    Design Strategies
    • Access to positive/meaningful distractions (e.g., nature-themed artwork, window with views of nature, music, TV, Internet, reading materials)
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient comfort
    Design Strategies
    • Access to positive/meaningful distractions (e.g., nature-themed artwork, window with views of nature, music, TV, Internet, reading materials)
    Desirable Outcome
    Psychosocial support
    Design Strategies
    • Clear/turn space at least 5-foot by 5-foot citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; fall/injury prevention and improved mobility
    Design Strategies
    • Accommodate independent and assisted toilet transfers by included fold-down grab bars on both sides of the toilet (14" from centerline [CL] of toilet, 32" above the floor, and extended a minimum of 6" in front of the toilet) with one side open and a sidewall 24" from CL of toilet on the other. citation
    • Bathroom door is visible to patients citation
    • Clear/turn space at least 5-foot by 5-foot citation
    • Large bathroom door openings to accommodate patient, equipment and caregiver citation
    • Layout that allows for reorganization of space (e.g., easily movable furniture, modular elements) to accommodate changing needs
    • No equipment or other obstruction in the path from seating to bathroom citation
    • Spatial clearance to accommodate the movement of bariatric patients
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; infection control and hand sanitation
    Design Strategies
    • Easy access to sink or alcohol gel dispenser in care areas.
    Desirable Outcome
    Reduced risk of contamination
    Design Strategies
    • Special isolation rooms designated for patients who are or may be infectious.
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; medication safety
    Design Strategies
    • Easy access to sink or alcohol gel dispenser in care areas.
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; minimize risk of injury
    Design Strategies
    • Accommodate independent and assisted toilet transfers by included fold-down grab bars on both sides of the toilet (14" from centerline [CL] of toilet, 32" above the floor, and extended a minimum of 6" in front of the toilet) with one side open and a sidewall 24" from CL of toilet on the other. citation

  • Layout - Staff

    Desirable Outcome
    Efficient delivery of care
    Design Strategies
    • Easily accessible storage for cleaning supplies when needed immediately (e.g., incontinence on self/seating/floor) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; infection control and hand sanitation
    Design Strategies
    • Easily accessible storage for cleaning supplies when needed immediately (e.g., incontinence on self/seating/floor) citation

  • Sound-Masking

    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize patient stress/anxiety
    Design Strategies
    • Use of white noise/sound masking to reduce disruptions from noise (e.g. white noise machines) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient comfort
    Design Strategies
    • Use of white noise/sound masking to reduce disruptions from noise (e.g. white noise machines) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced privacy
    Design Strategies
    • Sound masking to prevent conversations from being overheard by others in nearby areas.

  • Flooring

    Desirable Outcome
    Accessibility; ease of use
    Design Strategies
    • Avoid glare and excessive contrast and patterns on floors, which can be perceived as or conceal actual changes in level which pose a potential trip hazard. citation
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Improved access/wayfinding
    Design Strategies
    • Color coding (e.g., floor, wall color, etc.), together with lighting, landmarks, and view of exterior, to make wayfinding easy for patients. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Caregiver health/support/respite
    Design Strategies
    • High durability and high lifecycle performance for all elements (e.g., materials): minimum wear and tear over time (e.g., minimize visual cracks, stains and damages); sustaining recommended cleaning protocols citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Caregiver safety; minimize risk of physical injury
    Design Strategies
    • Flooring with energy-absorbent properties (to absorb the force of impact that causes injury, for example rubber) balanced with firmness (to reduce the risk of falling due to poor balance) citation
    • Smooth, level floor surfaces with minimal variations that allow freedom of movement, especially when navigating with mobility assistance or medical equipment citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Improved Job satisfaction
    Design Strategies
    • High durability and high lifecycle performance for all elements (e.g., materials): minimum wear and tear over time (e.g., minimize visual cracks, stains and damages); sustaining recommended cleaning protocols citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize patient stress/anxiety
    Design Strategies
    • Flooring that does not scratch/scruff easily and sustains the impact of mobile equipment (e.g. flooring materials including adhesive compatible with equipment weight to avoid indentation) as well as other frequent wear and tear citation
    • High-quality home-like or natural materials that create an attractive non-institutional ambience for patients and families. citation
    • Noise reduction measures (e.g. sound-absorbing finish materials) citation
    • Non-glare finishes
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize undue strain during recovery
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient satisfaction
    Design Strategies
    • Flooring that does not scratch/scruff easily and sustains the impact of mobile equipment (e.g. flooring materials including adhesive compatible with equipment weight to avoid indentation) as well as other frequent wear and tear citation
    • High-quality home-like or natural materials that create an attractive non-institutional ambience for patients and families. citation
    • Noise reduction measures (e.g. sound-absorbing finish materials) citation
    • Non-glare finishes
    Desirable Outcome
    Improved patient engagement
    Design Strategies
    • Noise reduction measures (e.g. sound-absorbing finish materials) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Healthy environment (reduced negative health effects)
    Design Strategies
    • Interior materials that contain low-VOC or minimal use of hazardous content (e.g., phthalates). citation
    • Interior materials that require less harsh chemicals than typical materials during installation, cleaning, maintenance, and replacement. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; air quality
    Design Strategies
    • Finish materials with low hazardous content including plasticizers, volatile organic compounds, latex, etc. citation
    • Finish materials’ production associated with less energy use and lower level of greenhouse gas emission or recyclable materials citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Noise reduction
    Design Strategies
    • Floor finish and sub-floor conditions that mitigate noise levels transmitted by adjacent spaces citation
    • Flooring with high sound absorbing properties and low sound transmitting properties citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; fall/injury prevention and improved mobility
    Design Strategies
    • Avoid flooring materials with intricate high-contrast patterns (especially for patients with impaired vision) citation
    • Avoid glare and excessive contrast and patterns on floors, which can be perceived as or conceal actual changes in level which pose a potential trip hazard. citation
    • Flooring stable, firm and slip-resistant, especially around water usage area (e.g. water cooler, sink, toilet/urinal, eye-wash station, bath, shower, etc.)
    • Flush flooring transitions citation
    • Install soft, resilient interior flooring materials (e.g., cork, rubber, or linoleum) that are gentler under foot than harder materials and can lessen the impact of falls. citation
    • Low contrast in flooring patterns citation
    • Minimum joints and seams to ensure that sharp edged objects, like walking sticks or heels, do not cause trips
    • Smooth, level floor surfaces with minimal variations that allow freedom of movement, especially when navigating with mobility assistance or medical equipment citation
    • Smooth, non-glare, non-slip or slip-resistant flooring citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; infection control and hand sanitation
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Reduced risk of contamination
    Design Strategies
    • Coved right angles between wall and floor
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    • Joints and seams for easy cleaning/maintenance
    • Manufacturers’ recommended cleaning protocols for the selected surface and finish materials compatible with recommendations by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guidelines for Environmental Infection Control in Health-Care Facilities citation
    • Smooth and nonporous surfaces, and minimize perforations and crevices
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; minimize risk of injury
    Design Strategies
    • Avoid glare and excessive contrast and patterns on floors, which can be perceived as or conceal actual changes in level which pose a potential trip hazard. citation
    • Flooring with energy-absorbent properties (to absorb the force of impact that causes injury, for example rubber) balanced with firmness (to reduce the risk of falling due to poor balance) citation
    • Install soft, resilient interior flooring materials (e.g., cork, rubber, or linoleum) that are gentler under foot than harder materials and can lessen the impact of falls. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced durability
    Design Strategies
    • Flooring that does not scratch/scruff easily and sustains the impact of mobile equipment (e.g. flooring materials including adhesive compatible with equipment weight to avoid indentation) as well as other frequent wear and tear citation
    • High durability and high lifecycle performance for all elements (e.g., materials): minimum wear and tear over time (e.g., minimize visual cracks, stains and damages); sustaining recommended cleaning protocols citation
    • Materials that can prevent the growth of mildew and mold due to moisture retention citation
    • Materials with high lifecycle performance: minimum wear and tear over time; sustaining recommended cleaning protocols citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced sustainability
    Design Strategies
    • Finish materials with low hazardous content (e.g., plasticizers, volatile organic compounds, latex, etc.) citation
    • Finish materials’ production associated with less energy use and lower level of greenhouse gas emission or recyclable materials citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Increased recycling
    Design Strategies
    • Environmentally conscious materials that contain rapidly renewable materials (e.g., bamboo flooring, straw & wheat board, cotton batt insulation, etc.) or recycled content when possible.

  • Walls

    Desirable Outcome
    Accessibility; ease of use
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    • Provide wainscot trim that protrudes from the wall and is securely fastened to offer a frame of reference and a touchstone for balance for level surfaces. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Improved access/wayfinding
    Design Strategies
    • Color coding (e.g., floor, wall color, etc.), together with lighting, landmarks, and view of exterior, to make wayfinding easy for patients. citation
    • Hand or lean rails to support frail, obese, and other patients when needed.
    Desirable Outcome
    Caregiver health/support/respite
    Design Strategies
    • High durability and high lifecycle performance for all elements (e.g., materials): minimum wear and tear over time (e.g., minimize visual cracks, stains and damages); sustaining recommended cleaning protocols citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Efficient delivery of care
    Design Strategies
    • Sound-absorbing finish materials to reduce overall background noise level and consequently reduce the alarm volume level
    Desirable Outcome
    Improved Job satisfaction
    Design Strategies
    • High durability and high lifecycle performance for all elements (e.g., materials): minimum wear and tear over time (e.g., minimize visual cracks, stains and damages); sustaining recommended cleaning protocols citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize patient stress/anxiety
    Design Strategies
    • Clock displayed in direct view of patients.
    • Display of expected waiting time in direct view of most patients.
    • High-quality home-like or natural materials that create an attractive non-institutional ambience for patients and families. citation
    • Nature scene, iconic images, or other pleasant stimuli in patient view citation
    • Noise reduction measures (e.g. sound-absorbing finish materials) citation
    • Non-glare finishes
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.) citation
    • Presence of clock for patient’s orientation to the time of day citation
    • Soundproof windows/walls to block external noise (e.g. planes, traffic), if needed
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize undue strain during recovery
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient satisfaction
    Design Strategies
    • Clock displayed in direct view of patients.
    • Display of expected waiting time in direct view of most patients.
    • High-quality home-like or natural materials that create an attractive non-institutional ambience for patients and families. citation
    • Nature scene, iconic images, or other pleasant stimuli in patient view citation
    • Noise reduction measures (e.g. sound-absorbing finish materials) citation
    • Non-glare finishes
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.) citation
    • Positive audio distractions (e.g. music, nature sounds) citation
    • Soundproof windows/walls to block external noise (e.g. planes, traffic), if needed
    Desirable Outcome
    Improved patient engagement
    Design Strategies
    • Noise reduction measures (e.g. sound-absorbing finish materials) citation
    • Patient access to electronic media for education and entertainment
    • Positive audio distractions (e.g. music, nature sounds) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced privacy
    Design Strategies
    • Solid walls (e.g., full-height partitions, materials with high noise reduction ratings - noise reduction coefficient, sound transmission class, ceiling attenuation class) that sufficiently prevent conversations in one room from being overheard by patients in neighboring rooms/corridors. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Healthy environment (reduced negative health effects)
    Design Strategies
    • Interior materials that contain low-VOC or minimal use of hazardous content (e.g., phthalates). citation
    • Interior materials that require less harsh chemicals than typical materials during installation, cleaning, maintenance, and replacement. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; air quality
    Design Strategies
    • Finish materials with low hazardous content (e.g., plasticizers, volatile organic compounds, latex, etc.) citation
    • Finish materials’ production associated with less energy use and lower level of greenhouse gas emission or recyclable materials citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Noise reduction
    Design Strategies
    • Wall construction and finish blocking (e.g., absorbing sound from outside, corridor, and adjacent rooms) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; fall/injury prevention and improved mobility
    Design Strategies
    • Provide wainscot trim that protrudes from the wall and is securely fastened to offer a frame of reference and a touchstone for balance for level surfaces. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; infection control and hand sanitation
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Reduced risk of contamination
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    • Joints and seams treated for easy clean/maintenance
    • Manufacturers’ recommended surface and finish material cleaning protocols compatible with recommendations by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guidelines for Environmental Infection Control in Health-Care Facilities citation
    • Smooth and nonporous surfaces, and minimize perforations and crevices
    • Wipe-able/washable, easy-to-clean /disinfect high touch surfaces with minimal joints/seams (e.g., door knobs, faucets, sinks, etc.) in the room citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; minimize risk of injury
    Design Strategies
    • Provide wainscot trim that protrudes from the wall and is securely fastened to offer a frame of reference and a touchstone for balance for level surfaces. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced durability
    Design Strategies
    • High durability and high lifecycle performance for all elements (e.g., materials): minimum wear and tear over time (e.g., minimize visual cracks, stains and damages); sustaining recommended cleaning protocols citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced sustainability
    Design Strategies
    • Finish materials with low hazardous content (e.g., plasticizers, volatile organic compounds, latex, etc.) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Increased recycling
    Design Strategies
    • Utilization of rapidly renewable interior materials (e.g., bamboo flooring, straw & wheat board, cotton batt insulation, etc.) or that contain recycled content when possible.

  • Ceiling

    Desirable Outcome
    Caregiver health/support/respite
    Design Strategies
    • High durability and high lifecycle performance for all elements (e.g., materials): minimum wear and tear over time (e.g., minimize visual cracks, stains and damages); sustaining recommended cleaning protocols citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Communication/ interaction with care provider/ emergency care
    Design Strategies
    • Sound-absorbing materials to reduce noise and reverberation to minimize potential interference with verbal communication.
    Desirable Outcome
    Improved job satisfaction
    Design Strategies
    • High durability and high lifecycle performance for all elements (e.g., materials): minimum wear and tear over time (e.g., minimize visual cracks, stains and damages); sustaining recommended cleaning protocols citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize patient stress/anxiety
    Design Strategies
    • High-quality home-like or natural materials that create an attractive non-institutional ambience for patients and families. citation
    • Noise reduction measures (e.g. sound-absorbing finish materials) citation
    • Non-glare finishes
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.) citation
    • Sound-absorbing ceiling construction and finishes (e.g., tiles and other noise reducing measures) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient satisfaction
    Design Strategies
    • High-quality home-like or natural materials that create an attractive non-institutional ambience for patients and families. citation
    • Noise reduction measures (e.g. sound-absorbing finish materials) citation
    • Non-glare finishes
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.) citation
    • Sound-absorbing ceiling construction and finish (e.g., tiles and other noise reduction measures) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Improved patient engagement
    Design Strategies
    • Noise reduction measures (e.g. sound-absorbing finish materials) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Healthy environment (reduced negative health effects)
    Design Strategies
    • Interior materials that contain low-VOC or minimal use of hazardous content (e.g., phthalates). citation
    • Interior materials that require less harsh chemicals than typical materials during installation, cleaning, maintenance, and replacement. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; air quality
    Design Strategies
    • Finish materials with low hazardous content (e.g., plasticizers, volatile organic compounds, latex, etc.) citation
    • Finish materials’ production associated with less energy use and lower level of greenhouse gas emission or recyclable materials citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Noise reduction
    Design Strategies
    • Sound-absorbing ceiling construction and finish (e.g., tiles and other noise reduction measures) citation
    • Use of acoustic tiles with high noise reduction coefficient (NRC) ratings citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Reduced risk of contamination
    Design Strategies
    • Joints and seams treated for easy clean/maintenance
    • Manufacturers’ recommended surface and finish material cleaning protocols compatible with recommendations by CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) Guidelines for Environmental Infection Control in Health-Care Facilities citation
    • Smooth and nonporous surfaces and minimize perforations and crevices
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced durability
    Design Strategies
    • High durability and high lifecycle performance for all elements (e.g., materials): minimum wear and tear over time (e.g., minimize visual cracks, stains and damages); sustaining recommended cleaning protocols citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced sustainability
    Design Strategies
    • Finish materials with low hazardous content (e.g., plasticizers, volatile organic compounds, latex, etc.) citation
    • Finish materials’ production associated with less energy use and lower level of greenhouse gas emission or recyclable materials citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Increased recycling
    Design Strategies
    • Environmentally conscious materials that contain rapidly renewable materials (e.g., bamboo flooring, straw & wheat board, cotton batt insulation, etc.) or recycled content when possible.

  • Windows

    Desirable Outcome
    Accessibility; ease of use
    Design Strategies
    • Views of outside nature and gardens citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Improved access/wayfinding
    Design Strategies
    • Natural light, views of outside, and landmarks to provide visual aids for wayfinding.
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize patient stress/anxiety
    Design Strategies
    • Glare sources (window) designed to minimize patient discomfort
    • Large windows for natural daylight and window views citation
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.) citation
    • Soundproof windows/walls to block external noise (e.g. planes, traffic), if needed
    • Views of outside nature and gardens. citation
    • Window treatments that allow natural light to be blocked/reduced during the day if needed
    • Windows and/or skylight that provide high quality direct or indirect natural light citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient satisfaction
    Design Strategies
    • Glare sources (window) designed to minimize patient discomfort
    • Large windows for natural daylight and window views citation
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.) citation
    • Soundproof windows/walls to block external noise (e.g. planes, traffic), if needed
    • Views of outside nature and gardens citation
    • Window treatments that allow natural light to be blocked/reduced during the day if needed
    • Windows and/or skylight that provide high quality direct or indirect natural light citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient comfort
    Design Strategies
    • Views of outside nature and gardens. citation
    • Window treatments that allow natural light to be blocked/reduced during the day if needed
    • Windows and/or skylight that provide high quality direct or indirect natural light citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced privacy
    Design Strategies
    • Prevention of patients from being viewed through exterior windows
    Desirable Outcome
    Healthy environment (reduced negative health effects)
    Design Strategies
    • Glazed windows with UV protection to reduce staff and patient exposure.
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced sustainability
    Design Strategies
    • Double-glazed windows with low U-value glazing citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Reduced resource consumption
    Design Strategies
    • Proper shading (interior, integral, and exterior shading devices) to minimize direct sunlight and solar exposure in the main indoor spaces. citation
    • Window insulation to reduce heat transmission.

  • Doors

    Desirable Outcome
    Improved access/wayfinding
    Design Strategies
    • Door design that facilitates pass-through of wheel chaired patients (e.g., wide door, clearance at the opening side, etc.)
    Desirable Outcome
    Caregiver health/support/respite
    Design Strategies
    • High durability and high lifecycle performance for all elements (e.g., materials): minimum wear and tear over time (e.g., minimize visual cracks, stains and damages); sustaining recommended cleaning protocols
    Desirable Outcome
    Improved Job satisfaction
    Design Strategies
    • High durability and high lifecycle performance for all elements (e.g., materials): minimum wear and tear over time (e.g., minimize visual cracks, stains and damages); sustaining recommended cleaning protocols
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize patient stress/anxiety
    Design Strategies
    • Noise reduction measures (e.g. sound-absorbing finish materials)
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.)
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient satisfaction
    Design Strategies
    • Noise reduction measures (e.g. sound-absorbing finish materials)
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.)
    Desirable Outcome
    Improved patient engagement
    Design Strategies
    • Noise reduction measures (e.g. sound-absorbing finish materials)
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced privacy
    Design Strategies
    • Solid doors (e.g., materials with high noise reduction ratings - noise reduction coefficient, sound transmission class, and ceiling attenuation class that sufficiently prevent conversations from being overheard in neighboring rooms/corridors.
    • Sound absorption or blocking measures (e.g. acoustic ceiling tile) to minimize sound transmission between patient rooms, and between patient rooms and corridors
    Desirable Outcome
    Noise reduction
    Design Strategies
    • Door construction and finish blocking/absorbing sound from outside, corridor, and adjacent rooms
    • Minimal noise from equipment operation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; fall/injury prevention and improved mobility
    Design Strategies
    • Bathroom door is visible to patients
    • Easy-to-open doors (consider handle grip, mechanics, and weight of door)
    • Large bathroom door openings to accommodate patient, equipment and caregiver citation
    • Minimal noise from equipment operation
    • Spatial clearance to accommodate the movement of bariatric patients
    Desirable Outcome
    Reduced risk of contamination
    Design Strategies
    • Joints and seams treated for easy cleaning/maintenance
    • Manufacturers’ recommended surface and finish material cleaning protocols compatible with recommendations by CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) Guidelines for Environmental Infection Control in Health-Care Facilities citation
    • Smooth and nonporous surfaces and minimize minimal perforations and crevices
    • Wipe-able/washable, easy-to-clean /disinfect high touch surfaces with minimal joints/seams (e.g., door knobs, faucets, sinks, etc.) in the room citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced durability
    Design Strategies
    • High durability and high lifecycle performance for all elements (e.g., materials): minimum wear and tear over time (e.g., minimize visual cracks, stains and damages); sustaining recommended cleaning protocols citation
    • Materials that can prevent the growth of mildew and mold due to moisture retention citation
    • Materials with high lifecycle performance: minimum wear and tear over time; sustaining recommended cleaning protocols citation

  • HVAC

    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced sustainability
    Design Strategies
    • Energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Reduced resource consumption
    Design Strategies
    • High-efficiency HVAC equipment that uses relatively less energy for ventilation and air-conditioning citation

  • Electrical

    Desirable Outcome
    Communication/ interaction with care provider/ emergency care
    Design Strategies
    • Appropriate electrical system to support reliable internet access citation

  • Lighting

    Desirable Outcome
    Accessibility; ease of use
    Design Strategies
    • Avoid glare and excessive contrast and patterns on floors, which can be perceived as or conceal actual changes in level which pose a potential trip hazard. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize patient stress/anxiety
    Design Strategies
    • Lighting design allows lighting variation (i.e. bright light during daytime and reduced light during nighttime) for the purpose of maintaining patients' circadian rhythm citation
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient satisfaction
    Design Strategies
    • Lighting design allows lighting variation (i.e. bright light during daytime and reduced light during nighttime) for the purpose of maintaining patients' circadian rhythm citation
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; fall/injury prevention and improved mobility
    Design Strategies
    • Avoid glare and excessive contrast and patterns on floors, which can be perceived as or conceal actual changes in level which pose a potential trip hazard. citation
    • Interior motion lighting/sensor-activated lighting without glare, and/or use nightlights citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; minimize risk of injury
    Design Strategies
    • Avoid glare and excessive contrast and patterns on floors, which can be perceived as or conceal actual changes in level which pose a potential trip hazard. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced sustainability
    Design Strategies
    • Energy-efficient lighting fixtures (e.g. light-emitting diode [LED] lighting fixture) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Reduced resource consumption
    Design Strategies
    • Lighting fixtures that include high-efficiency fluorescent lamps and LEDs that use relatively less lighting energy.

  • Fixtures / Equipment / Appliances

    Desirable Outcome
    Accessibility; ease of use
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    • Lever handles or pedal-controlled faucets with hand-held sprayer citation
    • Toilet seat at 17-19 inches above floor or height adjustable citation
    • Wall-hung sink (or other wheelchair accessible sink) to provide space for wheelchair use
    Desirable Outcome
    Caregiver safety; minimize risk of physical injury
    Design Strategies
    • Accommodate independent and assisted toilet transfers by included fold-down grab bars on both sides of the toilet (14" from centerline [CL] of toilet, 32" above the floor, and extended a minimum of 6" in front of the toilet) with one side open and a sidewall 24" from CL of toilet on the other. citation
    • Avoid chairs that restrict the ability to stand without the need for lift mechanisms (e.g., too low, deep, lack arm rests, or don't enable a person to get their feet under the edge of the seat)
    Desirable Outcome
    Efficient delivery of care
    Design Strategies
    • Accommodate independent and assisted toilet transfers by included fold-down grab bars on both sides of the toilet (14" from centerline [CL] of toilet, 32" above the floor, and extended a minimum of 6" in front of the toilet) with one side open and a sidewall 24" from CL of toilet on the other. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize patient stress/anxiety
    Design Strategies
    • Access to positive/meaningful distractions (e.g., nature-themed artwork, window with views of nature, music, TV, Internet, reading materials)
    • Drinking water easily accessible to all patients, staff, and visitors.
    • Lighting design allows lighting variation (i.e. bright light during daytime and reduced light during nighttime) for the purpose of maintaining patients' circadian rhythm citation
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize undue strain during recovery
    Design Strategies
    • Avoid chairs that restrict the ability to stand without the need for lift mechanisms (e.g., too low, deep, lack arm rests, or don't enable a person to get their feet under the edge of the seat)
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient satisfaction
    Design Strategies
    • Access to positive/meaningful distractions (e.g., nature-themed artwork, window with views of nature, music, TV, Internet, reading materials)
    • Drinking water easily accessible to all patients, staff, and visitors.
    • Lighting design allows lighting variation (i.e. bright light during daytime and reduced light during nighttime) for the purpose of maintaining patients' circadian rhythm citation
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient comfort
    Design Strategies
    • Access to positive/meaningful distractions (e.g., nature-themed artwork, window with views of nature, music, TV, Internet, reading materials)
    Desirable Outcome
    Reduced noise
    Design Strategies
    • Minimal noise from equipment operation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; fall/injury prevention and improved mobility
    Design Strategies
    • Accommodate independent and assisted toilet transfers by included fold-down grab bars on both sides of the toilet (14" from centerline [CL] of toilet, 32" above the floor, and extended a minimum of 6" in front of the toilet) with one side open and a sidewall 24" from CL of toilet on the other. citation
    • Adequate numbers of bathrooms designed to accommodate bariatric patients
    • Avoid chairs that restrict the ability to stand without the need for lift mechanisms (e.g., too low, deep, lack arm rests, or don't enable a person to get their feet under the edge of the seat)
    • Minimal noise from equipment operation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; infection control and hand sanitation
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    • Hands free mechanisms (e.g. wrist blades) for faucets, towel dispensers, alcohol gel dispensers, soap dispensers etc.
    Desirable Outcome
    Reduced risk of contamination
    Design Strategies
    • Built-in sinks with seamless countertop surface citation
    • Deep sink basins to prevent splashing from drain to other surfaces citation
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    • One sink and one alcohol gel dispenser located within easy reach in each clinician-patient interaction space.
    • Wipe-able/washable, easy-to-clean /disinfect High Touch Surfaces with minimal joints/seams (e.g. door knobs, faucets, sinks) in the room citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; minimize risk of injury
    Design Strategies
    • Accommodate independent and assisted toilet transfers by included fold-down grab bars on both sides of the toilet (14" from centerline [CL] of toilet, 32" above the floor, and extended a minimum of 6" in front of the toilet) with one side open and a sidewall 24" from CL of toilet on the other. citation
    • Install anti-scald water devices that limit the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit maximum. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced sustainability
    Design Strategies
    • Energy-efficient lighting fixtures (e.g. light-emitting diode [LED] lighting fixture) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Reduced resource consumption
    Design Strategies
    • Faucets and toilets that are low flow and use relatively less water. citation

  • Furniture / Accessories

    Desirable Outcome
    Accessibility; ease of use
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Caregiver health/support/respite
    Design Strategies
    • Furniture design features that enhance staff comfort (e.g., enough leg room for computer desk, left-handed staff).
    Desirable Outcome
    Efficient delivery of care
    Design Strategies
    • Furniture design features that enhance staff comfort (e.g., enough leg room for computer desk, left-handed staff).
    Desirable Outcome
    Improved job satisfaction
    Design Strategies
    • Furniture design features that enhance staff comfort (e.g., enough leg room for computer desk, left-handed staff).
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize patient stress/anxiety
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-adjust furniture to improve the comfort of various users.
    • Furniture configured to facilitate interaction between patient and companions citation
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.) citation
    • Soothing music and nature sounds accessible to patients. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize undue strain during recovery
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient satisfaction
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-adjust furniture to improve the comfort of various users.
    • Furniture configured to facilitate interaction between patient and companions citation
    • Non-institutional looking appearance (e.g., finish materials, fixtures, furniture, color, texture, etc.) citation
    • Soothing music and nature sounds accessible to patients. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Patient comfort
    Design Strategies
    • Furniture suitable for variations in age, ability, and build (consider bariatric populations)
    • Comfortable patient chair without compromising safety
    Desirable Outcome
    Improved family presence and engagement in patient care
    Design Strategies
    • Furniture configured to facilitate interaction between patient and companions citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced privacy
    Design Strategies
    • Furniture configured to allow patient and companion privacy citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; fall/injury prevention and improved mobility
    Design Strategies
    • Chairs with armrests
    • Furniture sturdy and stable to support patient transfer and weight bearing requirements (including requirements for bariatric patients)
    • Space beneath the chair to support foot position changes
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; infection control and hand sanitation
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    • Furniture sturdy and stable to support patient transfer and weight bearing requirements (including requirements for bariatric patients)
    Desirable Outcome
    Reduced risk of contamination
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    • Impervious material for upholstery
    • Smooth and nonporous surfaces and minimize perforations and crevices
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; minimize risk of injury
    Design Strategies
    • No sharp edges in fixtures found in patient/caregiver pathways (e.g. rounded corners of casework)

  • Casework / Storage

    Desirable Outcome
    Change-readiness/future-proofing
    Design Strategies
    • Reconfigurable casework
    Desirable Outcome
    Accessibility; ease of use
    Design Strategies
    • Counters 25” deep (max) to maximize reachable distance for persons in wheelchairs, with clear knee space as deep as the reach distance citation
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    • Open shelving for easy access to frequently used items citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Efficient delivery of care
    Design Strategies
    • Adequate storage space (e.g., cabinet that conceals medical equipment) to efficiently store items, reduce clutter, and maintain domestic aesthetic. citation
    • Easily accessible storage for cleaning supplies when needed immediately (e.g., incontinence on self/seating/floor) citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize patient stress/anxiety
    Design Strategies
    • Adequate storage space (e.g., cabinet that conceals medical equipment) to efficiently store items, reduce clutter, and maintain domestic aesthetic. citation
    • Minimal visual clutter (e.g. equipment and wires) in the room
    Desirable Outcome
    Minimize undue strain during recovery
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; fall/injury prevention and improved mobility
    Design Strategies
    • Adequate storage space (e.g., cabinet that conceals medical equipment) to efficiently store items, reduce clutter, and maintain domestic aesthetic. citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; infection control and hand sanitation
    Design Strategies
    • Easily accessible storage for cleaning supplies when needed immediately (e.g., incontinence on self/seating/floor) citation
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Reduced risk of contamination
    Design Strategies
    • Easy-to-clean or antibacterial/antimicrobial finish materials to reduce surface contamination citation
    • Smooth and nonporous surfaces and minimize perforations and crevices
    Desirable Outcome
    Safety; minimize risk of injury
    Design Strategies
    • No sharp edges in fixtures found in patient/caregiver pathways (e.g. rounded corners of casework)

  • Technology / Internet / Communication / Monitoring

    Desirable Outcome
    Change-readiness/future-proofing
    Design Strategies
    • Coordination with information technology (IT) and communications experts to plan flexible infrastructure that can adapt to expected future technologies
    Desirable Outcome
    Enhanced security
    Design Strategies
    • Caregiver control over computer screen to allow private entering of information (to protect electronic medical record [EMR] from being viewed by other patients and unrelated staff) as well as sharing of information with patient (when needed)
    Desirable Outcome
    Communication/ interaction with care provider/ emergency care
    Design Strategies
    • Easily accessible staff communication system (e.g., telephone, intercom) between patient room and other healthcare spaces (e.g. nursing station)
    • Toilet seat with integrated technology to measure weight, temperature, and urine content citation
    Desirable Outcome
    Efficient delivery of care
    Design Strategies
    • Noiseless paging/visual alarms and displays
    Desirable Outcome
    Safe delivery of care
    Design Strategies
    • Noiseless paging/visual alarms and displays
    Desirable Outcome
    Improved family presence and engagement in patient care
    Design Strategies
    • Wireless connectivity/ cellphone access