Healthcare facilities can avoid tripping hazards and bacteria seams in restrooms with combination toilet/shower rooms that are sometimes called universal design, according to an article on the FacilitiesNet website.
Rather than using a shower stall to contain the water, part of the restroom is designated “the shower zone.” The entire floor slopes to a drain within the shower zone.
To further reduce the risk of falls, universal restrooms should incorporate a shower seat.
Because of infection control concerns, touch- or hands-free faucets, toilets, and urinals have also become standard.