Comparative Analysis of Inpatient Ward Typologies for Space Program and Nurses’ Walking Distance

Abstract

This study examines nurses’ walking distance, and space programming for six plan typologies of the inpatient ward. As the design and spatial configuration play a vital role in the safety and well-being of patients and healthcare providers. This study adopted a case study and mixed method of research and designed inpatient wards in six different typologies. The measures of nurses' walking distance and space programming were calculated using AutoCAD and MS Excel software. The result shows that the compact square ward type on average offers minimum nurse’s walking distance, maximum patient area, minimum gross area as well as minimum circulation area. Research suggests that nurses' responsibilities and roles are vital to meet the growing demand for high-quality patient care. There had been numerous studies that quantify the impact of nurse walking distance on patient outcomes, nurse performance, and overall efficiency