Question

Write a 175- to 265-word response to the following:

• What elements will you use when determining facility planning within a community? Provide examples.
• What design and equipment modifications would you make when remodeling an inpatient unit for use by bariatric patients? How might equipment needs differ for this population? What tools, standards, or concepts would you leverage?
• What methods might be used to improve wayfinding in a healthcare facility?

Answer 1

The facility planning process is a process by which facility management organisations envisions its future by linking its purpose to the strategy of the overall organisation and then developing goals , objectives and action plans to achieve that future. It provides the foundation for a community's realistic and cost effective economic development efforts and reinforces its commitment to achieving and maintaining those efforts. The elements of facility planning are

1. Understanding
2. Analyzing
3. Planning
4. Acting

In a community one must consider the population , the geographical area and law and other regulations that govern the community . Understand when to start and the present scenarios and the decide what all changes can be made. Learn about the public support and prepare a cost survey and preliminary budget. Then analyse and visualise the goals and objectives. Collect and analyse data related to the goals. Now build a plan considering the future developmental scenarios. Then implement the plan which is most relevant.

For bariatric patients , beds , wheelchair, stretchers ,gurneys etc should be sized to accommodate obese patients. Bariatric unit spaces must be designed so that staff can easily manoeuver larger equipment. Bathroom size is another important consideration. Shower must be large enough to accommodate patients yet they have reach railings for support. Those railings need to be structurally supported behind the wall to handle the extra weight. Floor mounted toilets higher than standard toilets are essential. In addition to specialised bariatric beds , patients rooms should include bedside amenities such as refrigerators and freezers, so patients dietary supplements are within easy reach. They should have easy access to lighting , bedside computer , phone , television and thermostat controls. A scale recessed to the floor with a grab bar , provides a safe and accurate weight reading.

Designers do not have bariatric specific guidelines. Therefore , additional considerations should be made for the extra support and space required for bariatric patients and those who assist them with their daily activities.

Methods to improve wayfinding:

• building colour assignments
• building level guides to show how different facilities connect
• exterior signage visible from street level at major entrances
• wall signage
• a wayfinding specific website
• printed maps and directions.