There are five main design outputs from the research, responding to the five briefs which were the focus of the research.
Infection Control
The Carestation (now sold as the ‘CareCentre’ by UK manufacturers and partners Bristol Maid) is a unit placed at the end of the hospital bed, containing all the necessary equipment for common healthcare processes. It is intended to streamline staff workflow and improve access to equipment. It contains aprons and gloves, a medication locker, a flat surface for writing, a folder holder, alcohol hand gel, a clinical waste bin and cleaning wipes.
Hand Hygiene
Building on the successful National Patient Safety Agency ‘Clean Your Hands’ campaign, the research focused on reminders within the bedspace. A simple symbol, taking cues from construction safety signage, replaces the often ignored and confusing plethora of signage currently surrounding the alcohol hand gel dispensers. The clear sign is accompanied by a simple communications campaign to educate staff about the symbol.
Handover
The research found that the handover of patient information from one staff shift to the next often took place in an unsuitable environment. This exemplar design shows how best to use the space flexibly, featuring stowable seating, a fold away table, adjustable light levels and a ‘do not disturb’ sign. As space is at a premium, the design allows the room to be used as a staff room when handover is not in progress.
Vital Signs
The new trolley design features an improved cable management system, making it much easier to clean between patients. The touch screen computer automatically records the patient’s vital signs and displays them on a chart. This removes the errors in transcription and interpretation found in the research. This design is in ongoing development with US manufacturers Humanscale.
Medication
The new blister pack design has all the important information about the drug displayed in a clear, patient friendly way. The shape also helps with oral administration. If more than one drug is given to a patient, the individual strips are placed on a dedicated patient tray which contains and displays all the information with the tablets. This replaces the current system of an anonymous pill pot with unidentifiable tablets inside, and involves the patient in their medication regime.