Blog Contribution by NIHD Board Member Stacy Mockridge, RN, MSN, Healthcare Planner and Clinical Operations Specialist @ Progressive ae.
Designing an ideal cancer center infusion space requires a thoughtful approach that addresses the complex and varied needs of patients. Cancer treatment, particularly chemotherapy infusions, can be a lengthy and emotionally exhausting process for patients and their families. Therefore, creating an environment that offers privacy, fosters a sense of community, and facilitates intimate family conversations is paramount.
Cancer center infusion spaces serve as critical environments where patients spend considerable time receiving treatments that are often challenging both physically and emotionally. Recognizing the diverse needs of patients during this journey, it’s essential to design these spaces with a deep understanding of their quest for privacy, need for community support, and the importance of family involvement. Innovative design strategies that address these varied needs aim to transform the infusion experience into one of comfort, support, and healing.
Photo shared with permission from Progressive Companies.
Privacy: A Sanctuary for Healing
Privacy is a fundamental need for many patients undergoing treatment. The ability to process emotions, rest, or simply have a moment of solitude is invaluable. Privacy in design can be accomplished through:
Private Infusion Rooms: Equip each room with comfortable, reclining chairs, and ensure there is enough space for a family member or friend to be present without crowding the patient. Use sliding doors or curtains to offer complete privacy when needed.
Soundproofing: Implement sound-absorbing materials in walls and ceilings to minimize external noise, allowing patients to relax or meditate in peace.
Personal Control: Give patients control over the environment-lighting, temperature, and even the choice of music can make a space feel more personalized and comforting.
Private Entrance: A “don’t see me” entrance provides patients with the ability to enter the building discreetly when they are not feeling up to social interaction.
Lighting: Harnessing natural light offers invaluable benefits, fostering a serene and uplifting atmosphere conducive to healing and relaxation. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, natural light promotes circadian rhythm regulation, mood enhancement, and overall well-being for patients. Complementing this, artificial enhancements such as light panels featuring outdoor scenes further enrich the therapeutic environment, providing a harmonious blend of nature and technology to optimize the patient’s experience and promote holistic healing.
Photo shared with permission from Progressive Companies.
Community: Fostering Connections and Support
A sense of community can be incredibly uplifting for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Designing spaces that encourage interaction and support among patients can make a significant difference in their emotional well-being.
Community Lounges: Create shared spaces where patients can interact, share stories, and support each other. These areas should be welcoming and equipped with comfortable seating, refreshments, and activities that encourage engagement.
Open Infusion Areas: For those that prefer not to be isolated, design open infusion areas with multiple chairs. These spaces should allow for privacy screens to be drawn when needed, offering flexibility to those who might oscillate between seeking companionship and solitude.
Photo shared with permission from Progressive Companies.
Intimate Family Conversations: Spaces for Connection
The support of loved ones is crucial during cancer treatment. Designing spaces that facilitate intimate conversations and allow families to spend quality time together is key.
Family Consultation Rooms: Dedicated spaces for families to discuss treatment plans, progress, and concerns with healthcare providers can make complex conversations more comfortable.
Outdoor Areas: Gardens or walking paths can provide a serene setting for patients and their families to enjoy themselves together, away from the clinical environment. Incorporating nature into the design can have a calming effect and offer respite from the intensity of treatment.
Flexible Seating Areas: Incorporate seating arrangements in both private and communal areas that can be easily adapted to accommodate family groups of various sizes, ensuring that everyone can be together without feeling cramped or isolated.