By Mackenna Moralez, Associate Editor

The first rule of medicine is “Do No Harm.” It’s part of the Hippocratic Oath that medical professionals take, and it is engrained in their everyday practice. But physicians aren’t the only people who swear to protect patients. Anyone who works for a healthcare facility promises to take care of patients as if they were one of their own family members. This promise is also extended when designers and construction crews are in the building. 

In healthcare facilities, designers must consider the patient population, treatments that are being provided and materials that will be utilized in a space when they start a new project to prevent hospital acquired infections (HAI) and live up to the “Do No Harm” promise. Healthcare Facilities Today recently spoke with Cheryl Lauren Spigler, director, senior design leader at NELSON Worldwide on what design considerations need to be considered to keep patients safe.  

Healthcare Facilities Today: How are spaces designed to minimize the risk of healthcare-associated infections? 

Cheryl Lauren Spigler: Healthcare design is an art and science that encompasses the creation of healing environments that are aesthetically pleasing, welcoming, and functional. Strategic use of seamless and non-porous materials and an understanding of high touch and low touch areas is essential. Meeting with facilities staff to understand their cleaning policies and procedures is also crucial to selecting finishes that will not degrade under harsh chemicals. Along with the finishes, coordinating with MEP engineers and Owners to identify areas that would benefit from more frequent air changes or the flexibility to switch to negative pressure is vital to minimize risks. 

HFT: What considerations are made in the design of high-traffic areas like lobbies, waiting rooms, and corridors? 

Spigler: Integrating infection control measures into high-traffic areas while maintaining a welcoming and elegant environment is essential for modern design in healthcare settings. Here are some design strategies to balance aesthetics with functionality:  

1. Material Selection: Choose materials that are both durable and easy to clean. Non-porous surfaces like quartz countertops, glass, and certain high-performance plastics can withstand frequent cleaning and resist bacterial growth. Consider antimicrobial finishes for high-touch surfaces.  
2. Furniture and Layout: Opt for furniture with smooth, clean lines and minimal seams to reduce dust accumulation. Smaller seating groupings not only give a more hospitality feel, but also allows for separation and space between people.  
3. Flooring: Choose seamless flooring options that are easy to clean and maintain. Avoid flooring with grout lines or seams that can trap dirt and bacteria.  
4. Wall Treatments: In addition to coved bases, consider using washable/scrubbable wall coverings with a smooth surface. Wall coverings with antimicrobial properties can also enhance infection control.  
5. Signage and Wayfinding: Implement clear, non-intrusive signage to guide visitors and remind them of hygiene practices without being obtrusive. Digital displays can provide real-time information and updates in a more visually appealing way.  
6. Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation to keep air quality high. Use HVAC systems with high efficiency filters and incorporate features like UV-C light to help kill pathogens in the air.  

By integrating these elements thoughtfully, you can create an environment that not only meets infection control standards but also remains warm and welcoming for everyone who enters. 

Related: Designing for an Enhanced Patient Experience

HFT: How do you balance the need for a sterile environment with creating a welcoming and comfortable space for patients and staff?  

Spigler: Creating a space that is both sterile and welcoming is definitely achievable through thoughtful design. “Sterile” and "welcoming” are not mutually exclusive–the materials and design choices are key to balancing cleanliness with comfort. A few additional insights on how to enhance this balance:  

1. Materials:  
   1.  Monolithic Materials: Solid surfaces like Corian or quartz are fantastic for creating seamless, sculpted designs that are easy to clean and maintain. These can be used for countertops, seating, and even decorative features.  
   2.  Wipeable Surfaces: Choosing materials for seating and lighting that can be easily wiped down is crucial. Metal legs and arm caps, along with wipeable decorative lighting made of glass or resin, help maintain cleanliness without sacrificing aesthetics.  
2. Seating:  
   1. Ease of Cleaning: Opt for materials that resist staining and can be sanitized regularly. Silicone or PVC Free Vinyl coverings on seats, for example, can be a practical choice.  
   2. Smaller Groupings: Smaller, more intimate seating arrangements can foster a welcoming atmosphere. This approach contrasts with the impersonal feeling of large, uniform seating areas and separates large groups.  
3. Space Planning:  
   1. Flexible Layouts: Instead of rigid, back-to-back seating, incorporate flexible arrangements that offer various options for interaction and privacy. This can make the space feel more inviting and comfortable.  
   2. Accessibility: Ensure there is enough space for movement and that the layout facilitates easy cleaning around and between furniture pieces.  

By combining these elements, designers can create spaces that meet both functional needs and aesthetic goals, achieving a balance that is both sterile and inviting. 

Mackenna Moralez is the associate editor of the facilities market.