Top Elements for an Optimal Healthcare Clinician Space

Healthcare clinicians are the backbone of patient care, yet their wellbeing is often overlooked. Therefore, thoughtful design of clinician spaces can significantly impact their job satisfaction, reduce burnout, and enhance the quality of care they provide. Based on insights from Steelcase’s research, there are certain top elements that should be included in a healthcare clinician space. Keep reading to learn more!

1. Efficient Work Areas

Clinicians need workspaces that are both functional and efficient. This includes ergonomic furniture, storage, and easy access to necessary tools and equipment. As a result, efficient work areas help clinicians perform their tasks more effectively and reduce physical strain.
The Steelcase Health Sync Workstation is designed to support the dynamic needs of healthcare environments, offering ergonomic features and customizable configurations to enhance efficiency.

2. Dedicated Rest Areas

Given the high-stress nature of healthcare work, it's crucial to have dedicated wellness/rest areas where clinicians can take breaks and recharge. These spaces should be quiet, comfortable, and equipped with amenities that promote relaxation, such as comfortable seating and calming decor.

The Steelcase Health Surround Lounge provides a comfortable and inviting seating option for rest areas, allowing clinicians to relax and unwind in a supportive environment.

3. Enhanced Workflow Design

Streamlined workflows are essential for reducing the time clinicians spend on administrative tasks and increasing the time they can dedicate to patient care. This can be achieved through thoughtful layout design that minimizes unnecessary movement and optimizes the flow of work.

The Steelcase Health Pocket Mobile Workstation offers a compact and mobile solution that supports efficient workflows, allowing clinicians to easily move between tasks and locations.

4. Supportive Culture

A supportive culture within the healthcare environment is vital for clinician wellbeing. This includes fostering a sense of community, providing opportunities for professional development, and ensuring that clinicians feel valued and appreciated.
The Coalesse Enea Lottus Table creates a space for clinicians to gather, share ideas, and support one another, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

5. Technology Integration

Integrating technology into clinician spaces can greatly enhance efficiency and communication. This includes electronic health records systems, telemedicine capabilities, and other digital tools that facilitate better patient care and streamline administrative processes.

The Steelcase Health Relay is a wall-mounted arm is designed to support information technology and the clinician work process at the point-of-care.

6. Natural Light and Ventilation

Access to natural light and proper ventilation can significantly improve the physical and mental wellbeing of clinicians. Natural light helps regulate circadian rhythms, while good ventilation ensures a healthy and comfortable environment.

The Steelcase Privacy Wall is designed to maximize natural light while providing necessary privacy, creating a healthier and more pleasant environment for clinicians.

7. Safety and Accessibility

Safety and accessibility are crucial in healthcare settings. Due to this, clinician spaces should be designed to prevent injuries and accommodate the diverse needs of all staff members. This includes accessible workstations, tables, chairs, and clear signage.

The Steelcase Health Opus Overbed Table is designed with safety and accessibility in mind, offering a stable and adjustable surface that meets the needs of diverse users.

Designing healthcare spaces with these elements in mind can create a more supportive and efficient environment for clinicians. By prioritizing their wellbeing, healthcare organizations can ensure that clinicians are better equipped to provide high-quality patient care.

Get in touch with Waldner’s Healthcare team today and discover more about our exceptional Healthcare Services below!

*Reference: https://www.steelcase.com/research/articles/topics/healthcare/designing-a-better-clinician-experience/