Executive Corner
Architect Angela Mazzi detailed several strategies that influence how EDs can be reshaped for better efficiency in the January issue of Health Facilities Management.
• Self-triage: This allows patients to answer basic questions about their complaint via a tablet or other electronic device to streamline care.
• EYEBALL triage: A nurse or physician is located at the ED entry to make an immediate patient assessment.
• Triage suite: A cluster of triage rooms with support areas for staff.
• Chair-centric area: An open room with recliners separated by cubicle curtains or partitions. This space often is not enclosed.
• Fast-track area: A designated area for expeditious treatment of low-acuity patients.
• Fast-track waiting room: A holding area for families of fast-track patients. It also is used to pull fast-track patients out of the general waiting room to keep them close at hand.
• Results waiting area: A designated waiting room for patients who no longer need a bed, but are not yet ready for discharge.
• Observation unit: A unit for placing patients who require additional time in a health care setting, but no longer require ED services and do not need to be admitted.
• Embedded imaging: A radiography or computed tomography room within the ED.
• Embedded lab: A lab area within the ED for routing automated testing.
• Interior staff work core: A two-sided exam room open to patient circulation on one side and a staff work core on the other.
• Universal room: Slightly larger than required minimum 120 square feet, equipped for general and specialty needs. •
