Optimizing physical space design of hemodialysis units to prevent nosocomial infections

Studies have demonstrated an association between physical space design and nosocomial infections. When designing a hemodialysis unit, the key principl es of adequate space, traffic flow from clean to dirty, and a functional de sign appropriate to the patient population must be taken into account. Key areas to which attention must be paid include the following: patient care r ooms, space availability, storage, isolation rooms, soiled utility rooms, d edicated hand-washing sinks, reprocessing rooms, invasive procedure rooms, and plumbing. When deciding upon appropriate design, planners must ensure t hat infection prevention and control issues have been considered in order t o lower risks of violating basic hygienic principles and aseptic technique concepts. Physical space planning and design should always take into accoun t future projections in patient care, and should err on the side of caution .