How to Design a Nurse's Office

Nurse's offices, whether they be within a school or doctor's office, often have to be multipurpose spaces. A nurse must have an area efficient for on-site diagnosis, treatment, triage and referrals for a range of minor, acute and chronic problems. A nurse must be able to store equipment needed for routine examinations within easy reach. Design-wise, work within the parameters you have to make the space its most effective.

Things You'll Need

• Hanging rods
• Curtains
• Scale
• Height chart
• Vision chart
• Desk area
• Computer
• Telephone
• Cabinets

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Separate space into multiple areas. You should have an area with multiple chairs for patients to wait in, an area with an examining table where they can be treated, a bathroom, and a space with a bed and a dimmer switch where an ill patient can rest. Ideally these would be entirely different rooms, but if that's not an option, you can install rods near the ceiling and hang large curtains that can be opened and closed when necessary.

• 2

  Install two entrance doorways if possible, one from the main office area, and the other from the hallway. This will help to direct traffic flow and make it easier for the nurse to access emergencies and consultations.

• 3

  Factor in room in the main office area for a scale and height chart, as well as 20 feet of unobstructed view for vision screening.

• 4

  Build in a desk area with a computer and telephone for the nurse to perform clerical functions and record health information.

• 5

  Leave wall or shelf space away from the line of sight of the hallway, where patients can look through and pick up brochures on health issues.

• 6

  Line an available wall with cabinets and drawers for storage for medical supplies and easy-to-sanitize counter space. Several drawers should be designed to hold file folders. Also leave an area for a deep sink for rinsing tubing and bags.

• 7

  Lay tile flooring for easy clean-up and sanitation.