Banner Gateway Medical Center Observation Unit

This new twenty-three bay, 6,700 square foot Observation Unit was designed with an open bay concept that utilizes and supplements the Emergency Department during peak times. To aid in this, the standard observation bay closely matches the ED headwall design to meet requirements for an emergency exam room. This design eases strain on the emergency room as well as provides systems and rooms for the observation unit to handle more complex situations.

Within the observation unit, lighting systems are designed to mimic the circadian rhythm so patients spending longer periods of time feel less disoriented depending on the time of the day. Wall, flooring and ceiling protection systems are designed and color coordinated to provide ample wayfinding throughout the unit. Nurses and staff can be assigned to color bays and patients and visitors know where they are at all given times while moving throughout.

Looking ahead, headwalls, systems, and sizes are designed to be flexible within the unit so the floor can change functions throughout its lifetime. Room functions can be modified at a low cost and with minimal disruption in the future so the hospital itself can adapt to changing needs.