The reception area in a hospital, healthcare facility, or care home is one of the most crucial sections of the building. That’s why there needs to be a delicate balance to be struck between functionality, safety, and comfort when designing it. Like any other area in a healthcare facility, it needs to observe strict infection control measures to avoid spreading anything contagion to the clients and patients who go by the reception area. The following guide is all about designing a reception area and ensuring the safety and comfort of everyone who goes through it.
1. Positive Wayfinding
For high traffic areas like hospitals, wayfinding should be considered as there must be clear signs telling patients and clients all the necessary information they need to navigate through the building. Avoid bombarding visitors with anything unnecessary, like signs and leaflets that could cause some confusion. Instead, use only the necessary visual cues to direct visitors to the correct area. You also need to consider people who may speak a different language or those with visual or hearing impairments.
2. Creating a Stress-Free Environment
A reception area is supposed to be a welcoming area for people visiting or seeking medical help. As much as possible, you should make it a stress-free environment by minimising any disturbances. Everyone should be well-protected using physical barriers like clear panes of glass. There should be available hand-sanitisers within reach at all times. It also works well to have plants in place to help improve air quality.
3. High-Quality Reception Furniture
When looking for hospital furniture, particularly in the reception area, aesthetics aren’t the only consideration here. It’s vital to choose the kind of furniture with infection control features and made from materials that prevent the spread of infectious agents and substances. Features like sloping tops to prevent dust buildup as well as smooth joints to prevent dirt from collecting there are all important considerations. Don’t just buy furniture from any other company. Make sure to only deal with a furniture maker that produces specialist furniture designed for the healthcare industry.
4. Storage Solutions
Of course, storage is one of the most important considerations when designing a reception area. Aside from the desks and the furniture, you need to have the appropriate shelving and racking to maximise the space in your reception area. You may also need cupboards and wall cabinets designed for hospital use.
Today, most hospitals also use modular storage containers and filing solutions as it’s easier to organise and arrange. While a reception area is more similar to an office setting, utilising furniture and storage solutions designed for medical use or in a hospital setting is very much encouraged.
5. Prioritising Hygiene
With the COVID-19 pandemic still threatening the safety and the lives of many people, infection control has never been more critical in hospitals and other similar settings. It’s no longer just to just make your reception area look good and functional. It should also be safe and well-sanitised at all times. Since quite a lot of person-to-person interactions happen at the reception, following strict hygiene protocols is crucial.
Conclusion
Designing a reception area for a hospital isn’t as simple as that of designing one in a bank or an office setting. Hospitals have strict hygiene and sanitary requirements that need to be considered. These tips should help you design a reception area that’s fit for any hospital and healthcare setting.
If you need high-quality medical storage units, multi-function trolleys, hospital shelving, and medical supply carts in your healthcare facility, turn to PP Healthcare Solutions Ltd. We are committed to providing the best storage solutions for our clients looking to provide quality healthcare to their patients. Get in touch with us today if you have any queries about our products.