Recently, the norm for dental reception rooms has been changed. Instead of boring and sterile spaces, modern reception spaces reflect the values of a dental clinic. They’re filled with personality, flair and sprinkles, like Starbucks coffee bars and iPad stations. While these options are useful but the COVID-19 epidemic has added a new element of necessity. With the increased concern about security and control of infections, It is crucial for reception areas in the near future to remain as tidy as they can be cozy. If you’re designing a reception area starting from scratch or redesigning an existing one, modern design elements make the difference.
The significance of perceiving CLEANLINESS
The field of design for health care is awash with research on the experience of patients, team efficiency as well as healthcare outcomes to mention some. Although this research is mostly drawn from hospitals, however, it offers valuable insights for dentists. For instance, survey data has revealed an important connection between cleanliness perception and the overall experience for patients. If patients don’t believe the health care facility is well-maintained, it not only creates the impression of poor experiences but adversely affects loyalty, the reputation of the institution, as well as its image. Relationships between perceived cleanliness and the number of hospital-acquired infections suggest that if people don’t feel the facility has been kept clean, that’s likely due to the fact that it isn’t #1 In the end, patients today value cleanliness. They are aware of this and have come to expect it, and will be adept at determining if they’re receiving treatment. In the midst of the epidemic that’s sweeping the country, it’s more crucial than ever to ensure that dental facilities appear clean and no place is this more vital than at reception. The right design choices include the use of furniture made for commercial use and nonporous, durable materials that can help reception areas clean and look cleaner for longer.
FURNITURE
Furniture in reception areas has been found to aid in the spreading of microbes across healthcare facilities. To reduce the spread, furniture in the reception should be cleaned regularly using EPA-registered hospital-grade cleaning solutions. The directions of the manufacturer must adhere to assure effectiveness The procedure typically involves thoroughly moistening the contaminated surface. When choosing the furniture for your waiting room is crucial to remember that there are many different types of furniture that are not created in the same way. The typical residential-grade furniture, which is bought from big-box retailers is not built to stand up to cleaners registered by the EPA. The components they comprise–soft fabrics vinyl of low quality, even wood — can easily break down and even harbor bacteria. However, furniture for health care that is commercial grade is constructed to withstand the rigors of usage and clean. Nonporous materials, composite resins, metals, and composites can be specified and include detailed guidelines on what EPA-certified sanitizers may be used with no fear of harm to the furniture. Furthermore, this type of furniture is often equipped with smart subtle features like cleaning out gaps between the backs and seats as well as ergonomic arms that allow for ease of movement as well as antimicrobial coatings.
CLAR MATERIAL SELECTION
The seating area isn’t the only thing at the reception that must be cleaned regularly. The CDC suggests treating all high-touch surfaces with EPA-registered, disinfectants that are suitable for use in hospitals. It is important to select materials that are easy to clean and stand up in time. The most durable, impervious material is easy to clean and will prevent the penetration of moisture which could cause the growth of mold and other bacteria. If you are planning to furnish your reception such as quartz or solid-surface countertop countertops. Also, think of plastic laminate cabinets that are constructed with durable PVC edge bands, vinyl wallcovering, or commercial vinyl floors. Avoid wallcoverings that are made of paper and vinyl flooring, including low-end or residential flooring, as well as any non-finished wood because these materials can degrade and contaminate the environment. Certain health-care-grade materials are antimicrobial in nature and are that are infused with silver ions, copper, or other additives that fight infection.
Social Distanciation
There’s no way to tell when social distancing will become a part of everyday life, which is why flexibility is essential when pondering the future of reception areas. At present, the seating is a good option to accommodate a six-foot space. Instead of settling for the same style of seating look for a mix of three or four designs that are able to be placed in small groups. The visual appeal and harmony can help keep reception from becoming sterile. Screens and dividers may be placed between seating areas or in front of the reception desk to create a visual separation, which can create feelings of security. The choice of mobile partitions over fixed, permanent solutions allow them to easily adapt as time passes. The CDC suggests keeping respiratory and hand hygiene equipment readily available and posting visual reminders to inform patients about workplace protocols. Making “sanitary stations” or plastic trays with a decorative design with alcohol-based rubs for hands, wipes for sanitizing, and tissues keep the necessary items neat and tidy. Switching handwritten paper signs with posters and frames enhances the visual appeal of alerts. These little details can ensure that CDC suggestions appear well integrated into the reception area style.
DURABLE IMPACT
Alongside materials and furniture, Design details can provide style and safety to reception while improving patient experience. Artwork, especially natural-themed art, can be a scientifically-based method to distract and create calm effects. Self-serve refreshment bars could replace, at a minimum in the near future with water bottles that are branded and given out to staff at the desk. Automated devices, like doors that are activated by motion, light switches, or temperature scanners can help to ensure peace of mind and reduce physical contact points. Ambient air purifiers that can capture clean and safe recycled air are an additional layer of security. Don’t let fears concerning infection control limit your imagination. Instead, this blog will assist you in ensuring that your new waiting area will appear fresh and tidy for years to come.
D.W.Inc. Design Build
D.W.Inc. is a renowned design-build firm located in Ontario and serving Doctors across the country. It has built a reputable reputation for offering the latest in Healthcare designs and buildings for four generations. D.W.Inc. provides modern healthcare facilities all across the nation, that reflect the unique personal style and character of the individual practice owners.
D.W.Inc. Design Build can take your dream of a perfect Healthcare clinic and make it a reality. Let’s get together to begin the exciting task of creating your ideal healthcare office.