REDUCING HOSPITAL-ACQUIRED INFECTIONS WITH THE USE OF ARCHITECTURAL MEASURES

Rafał Janowicz

REDUCING HOSPITAL-ACQUIRED INFECTIONS WITH THE USE OF ARCHITECTURAL MEASURES

Abstract

Healthcare facilities are architectural objects designed under the strong influence of sanitary and hygienic requirements and guidelines of medical technology. During the process of planning future healthcare facilities and modernising already existing units, the need to provide safety to all their users comes as a significant aspect. In medical objects, it depends on the standard factors observed in public utility buildings. The proper architectural organisation of a medical facility, its design process and its implementation come as a way to minimise the possibility of epidemiological risk occurrence. Properly designed and implemented, a functional and spatial layout supported with advanced systems of technical installations, such as mechanical ventilation, tele-technical systems and efficient decontamination, can ensure effective functioning and sanitary and hygienic conditions that will be safe for all users.