Case studies: Design Bugs Out

Four designers teamed up with British manufacturers to develop and prototype five new pieces of hospital furniture. By sharing research and expertise, each team has designed a functional product that makes cleaning quicker and easier and eliminates dirt traps.

Led by Research Associates with significant experience in healthcare design, a team from the Royal College of Art has also redesigned six everyday items of hospital equipment that pose a hygiene risk on the ward because they frequently come into close contact with both staff and patients.

Bedside Cabinet

Bedside Cabinet

Fewer hard-to-reach corners and surfaces make Kinneir Dufort's bedside cabinet easier to clean and more accessible for patients.

Commode

Commode

Robust, functional and easy to clean, PearsonLloyd's Commode minimises the risk of infection without compromising the patient’s dignity.

Patient Bedside System

Patient Bedside System

Hollington's radical redesign of the bedside cabinet reduces clutter, and makes cleaning easier.

Patient Chair

Patient Chair

Removable seat covers, waterproof padding and smooth surfaces encourage regular cleaning and improve patient comfort.

Porter's Chair

Porter's Chair

Comfortable and easy to use for staff and patients, the design of Minima's porter’s chair aids cleaning after every use.

Blood Pressure Cuff

Blood Pressure Cuff

A wipe-clean cuff that secures without the need for Velcro, which means it can be cleaned easily after use.

Cannula Time Tracker

Cannula Time Tracker

A simple timing device for intravenous lines, providing a visual indicator of how long they have been in use.

Curtain Clip

Curtain Clip

This detachable curtain handle creates a single wipe-clean touch-point for staff and patients, reducing the risk of cross-infection.

Intelligent Mattress

Intelligent Mattress

An inbuilt early warning system allows soiled mattresses to be identified as soon as they become contaminated.

Pulse Oximeter

Pulse Oximeter

A simpler design means the device is easier to clean, potentially reducing the risk of cross-infection.

Wipe Dispenser

Wipe Dispenser

This simple clip-on dispenser provides patients with easy access to detergent-based cleaning wipes at the bedside.

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