What’s the “Optimal” Layout for a Patient Bedroom?

A recent study involving 180 clinicians suggested that the outboard footwall bathroom layout is the best option. Supporting staff workflows, patient safety, and family engagement.

It sounds convincing, but there’s a catch: this solution is primarily optimal for staff, not necessarily for patients.

For example, an outboard ensuite may improve visibility for nurses, but for patients it can lead to:

  • More noise

  • Less privacy

  • Disrupted sleep

All of which are linked to longer hospital stays and poorer outcomes.

The reality is that designing a patient bedroom is a balancing act. Staff efficiency matters, but so do patient wellbeing, cost, technology, maintenance, and adaptability over time. Each decision influences another, which makes a single “perfect” design unlikely.

That said, we believe it’s possible to get close, with layouts that balance staff needs, patient experience, and long-term value.

We’ve been working on exactly that. Want to see what it looks like? Let’s connect.

 
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