Triage Process

The triage process is the first step in preventing the spread of infection in an emergency room. During triage, patients are assessed and classified according to their urgency of care. Patients who are most likely to have an infectious disease should be triaged separately from patients who are less likely to have an infectious disease.

Check-In Procedure

The check-in procedure should also be designed to prevent the spread of infection. Patients should be asked to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer before checking in. They should also be asked to provide information about their symptoms, including any recent travel or contact with people who are sick.

Waiting Area

The waiting area should be designed to maximize social distancing. Patients should be seated at least 6 feet apart. There should be plenty of space for people to move around without having to come into close contact with each other.

Furniture Choices

The furniture in the waiting area should be made of materials that are easy to clean and disinfect. Avoid furniture with fabric upholstery, as this can be difficult to clean and may harbor germs. Instead, choose furniture with hard surfaces, such as plastic or metal.

Cleaning Procedures

The waiting area should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. This should be done at least once per hour, and more often if necessary. The cleaning crew should wear gloves and masks to protect themselves from exposure to germs.

Personal Protective Equipment

Staff members in the emergency room should wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to protect themselves from exposure to germs. This includes gloves, masks, and gowns. Staff members should change their PPE between patients and should wash their hands frequently.

Room Design

The room design should also be taken into account when trying to prevent the spread of infection. The room should have good ventilation to help circulate air and reduce the risk of germs spreading. The walls and floors should be made of materials that are easy to clean and disinfect.

By following these design principles, you can create an emergency room waiting room that is safe for both patients and staff.