Washroom pod among prototypes revealed as part of “Design for Patient Dignity” programme

A washroom pod that can be quickly installed in an existing hospital ward to create a single sex toilet and washing facilities was one of several design prototypes unveiled today as part of the “Design for Patient Dignity” programme.

Health minister Ann Keen unveiled the groundbreaking designs at the Design Council. As well as the washroom there was a bed pod that created a private patient-controlled bed environment, a novel retractable screening system and a flexible signage system.

Keen said: “As a nurse, I know that patients expect and deserve not only high-quality, safe and effective care, but a dignified experience when they go into hospital. It is essential that the high standard of work carried out by skilled NHS staff is not undermined by patients feeling vulnerable and undignified when they receive treatment.”

Design for Patient Dignity is an initiative between the Department for Health and the Design Council that brings together designers, manufacturers, healthcare experts, staff and patients to design a variety of solutions to enhance and promote privacy and dignity in hospitals.

The washroom pod designed by Avanti Architects, together with Panaloc Worldwide, turns a bathroom into a standardised, flatpack product that could be installed in a hospital in two to three days. It can replace an existing bed in a ward or be attached to the outside of the building.

The prefabricated modular bed system designed by Nightingale Associates with SAS International and Billings Jackson Design incorporates modesty screens, improved acoustics and lighting and additional storage giving patients more control over their environment.

The concepts will now be evaluated and feedback given to the design teams.

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