Hospital Unveils Technologies for Next Generation Emergency Room

Feb. 1, 2008
In efforts to boost its disaster preparedness program, improve patient care and benefit the health and safety of hospital staff, Washington, D.C.-based

In efforts to boost its disaster preparedness program, improve patient care and benefit the health and safety of hospital staff, Washington, D.C.-based Washington Hospital Center revealed new technologies and designs for its emergency department, with a focus on infection control and the ability to handle large groups of new patients.

Unveiled at a press briefing Jan. 9, the “Bridge to ER One” will test innovations that include negative pressure isolation rooms to prevent the spread of infectious bacteria; walls made of Corian material to provide a cleaner environment; surfaces coated with antimicrobial material to reduce infections; and specifically designed ventilation and disinfection systems to monitor and clean circulating air.

A newly designed nursing station placed in the center of the emergency room will not only improve work flow, but also create ergonomically correct solutions to minimize the chance of a nurse incurring back pain and other musculoskeletal disorders. Desks that adjust to a health worker's height, as well as ergonomic stools that include nesting pads so nurses can rest their feet, are just some of the components of the newly designed station.

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