ICU makeover improves caregiver efficiency and patient comfort
A 12,000-square-foot renovation of Central DuPage Hospital’s third-floor Neurological Intensive Care Unit (ICU) marks a major clinical and aesthetic improvement in treating critically ill or injured patients. The project expands corridors, increases room size, improves observation, gives clinicians better access to patients, and creates a more inviting setting.
Sixteen rooms transform into 12 larger rooms with centrally located beds. In the former layout, caregivers had access to only three sides of a bed. The renovated larger patient rooms feature a centrally located bed and two ceiling-mounted movable medical booms, giving clinicians 360-degree access to patients.
The elliptical sweep of the central caregiver station, highlighted by a wood-finish ceiling light cove and a floor-level light halo, identifies its importance. Lower perimeter desks for nurses and taller, central stool-height tables for physicians enable caregivers to observe patients. Large-screen monitors around the station are mounted higher to keep views open to patient rooms.
Along corridors, caregiver alcoves allow for direct observation of two patients simultaneously through windows with internal blinds for privacy. Retractable hinged-arm seating prevents alcove chairs from intruding into the required eight-foot corridor clearance.
Other spaces include a pharmacy, locker room, conference room, offices, 24/7 patient monitor room, support/storage room, and expanded family lounge.
