This new field — evidence-based hospital design — is guiding new hospital design based on data from more than 1,500 studies that have examined ways that design can reduce medical errors, infections and falls and relieve patient stress, according to the report.
Research has shown that single-patient rooms provide more than just privacy; they can reduce infection and patient stress and improve sleep, according to the report. The American Institute of Architects recently called for single rooms in all new hospital construction.
Studies have also shown that sinks that are available by the door so hospital staff and visitors can wash their hands before entering and improved air-flow design have reduced hospital-acquired infections.
Designs that allow a better view of the hallway for the benefit of the patients and nurses, reduce noise in patient rooms and let in more natural light were also seen to improve patient outcome, according to the report.
Read the New York Times report on evidence-based hospital design.
