The value of flexible hospital space is being demonstrated as administrators rush to increase the number of hospital ICU beds to meet the expected peak in COVID-19 cases.
In many states, regulations require treatment rooms to be different sizes depending on the stage of patient care being provided. Facilities may now be more likely to specify space for acuity-adaptable units that are designed to match the square footage of ICU rooms.
These rooms may not be fully outfitted for ICU capability immediately, but can be retrofitted later to fulfill that purpose. Programming for hospital designs currently in the works are more likely to include how an increased number of beds could be added during future pandemics or other emergencies.
Under extreme demand, spaces that may not have the required square footage under normal circumstances could be outfitted as treatment areas. Spaces such as conference rooms, dining rooms, and parking structures can be repurposed for medical care if suitable utility access is available.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Nov 28, 2016
Marines plan first net zero energy military base
The Albany, Ga., site will have ground source heat pumps and a biomass generator.
Codes and Standards | Nov 18, 2016
Mahesh Ramanujam takes reins as U.S. Green Building Council President and CEO
Ramanujam brings his tech and business consulting background to the post.
Codes and Standards | Nov 18, 2016
Canada GBC launching Zero Carbon Buildings Initiative
First step toward Zero Carbon Building Standard.
Codes and Standards | Nov 17, 2016
Santa Monica, Calif., passes historic net-zero ordinance
Includes more stringent commercial, multifamily building standards.
Codes and Standards | Nov 14, 2016
Six more states approve legal marijuana, creating opportunities for developers
Federal prohibition complicates the picture.
Codes and Standards | Nov 14, 2016
Los Angeles voters approve billions to tackle traffic and homelessness
The approved measures will create new rail lines and permanent housing.
Codes and Standards | Nov 9, 2016
NRMCA updates environmental impacts of concrete
The EPD now includes 88 companies, 72 mixes.
Codes and Standards | Nov 9, 2016
Louisiana flood projections require urgent action, officials say
The 'no net loss’ prediction now seems unrealistic.
Codes and Standards | Nov 8, 2016
American Concrete Institute offers new guide for repair of concrete buildings
The guide provides assistance on assessment and rehab.
Codes and Standards | Nov 7, 2016
The AISC prequalified seismic moment connection standard is now available
You can download the 2016 version for free.
