Among the many risks healthcare administrators have to deal with, the risk of patient falls can be one of the most damaging to the organization. Falls, and the injuries they cause, are a major contributor to an epidemic of medical errors that cost the U.S. healthcare system anywhere from $17 billion to $29 billion a year. But here's some promising news: Many patient falls are preventable, if you pay attention to sound design for your facility's furniture.

Reducing patient falls is the second goal in The Center for Health Design's checklist for evidence-based design. Features in the patient environment account for up to 15% of falls, so you can make a big difference when you buy furniture that makes it easier for patients to move from a standing to sitting position and back again.

Chair seat height, foot position, and use of armrests all are important in easing patient movement and minimizing the risk of accidents. Seat height should be adjustable where possible. Chairs should leave space for patients to adjust their foot position comfortably. Furniture should have no sharp or hard edges that could injure a patient who trips or falls.

At Furniture Concepts we are proud to work with facilities that put safety first, and our products reflect their mission. Our heavy-use seating features firm cushions that ease patient movement. Our pieces are extremely tough, able to withstand heavy amounts of weight without tipping over. We design our products to work for patients of all ability levels, maximizing their comfort, safety and independence.

Your organization can successfully avoid many of the problems that contribute to falls, which continue to be the leading adverse incident reported in hospitals. Let us partner with you to promote a culture of safety in your organization. We will work with you to create a safe environment that gives your staff, patients and families greater peace of mind.

Containing healthcare associated infections (HAIs) could not be a more timely priority for healthcare facilities, given the heightened demands brought on by the COVID-19 crisis. While many institutions have adopted strategies to keep high-risk objects clean, these efforts often fall short because of inadequate staff training or inconsistent execution -

Managing risk in a healthcare setting becomes a complex task, requiring organizations to consider both the overtly unsafe act and the hidden danger in the environment. Each facility will have its own risk profile based on the characteristics of its physical space, workforce, and populations served. This is why it's so important to have access to tailored solutions that can correct any shortcomings in a facility's furniture and equipment.

High quality, evidence-based clinical care proves to be the most essential element for good patient/resident outcomes. Yet no facility should ignore the importance of the physical environment in promoting healing. A growing body of research demonstrates that the design features you select will make a major difference in either facilitating or impeding your clients' progress.

The use of evidence-based design in healing environments originated from 1980s research that found post-surgery patients who had a view of natural scenery recovered better than patients who faced a brick wall. Since then, other studies have shown that features such as peaceful artwork, access to natural light and limited background noise all play an important role in patient well-being.

Consistency in design also can improve your staff's productivity. Limiting the use of surfaces that are subject to frequent contamination reduces the threat of infection, no small consideration today. Improved lighting and acoustics have a calming effect on staff and can reduce the potential for costly errors.

The good news is improvements that make a difference do not have to carry a hefty price tag. Simple color choices, for example, can do wonders to promote healing. Blues, greens and neutral tones are known to create a calming effect. Any serene natural settings around your facility also should be incorporated into your design.

Here at Furniture Concepts we offer space planning and design expertise that can maximize your facility's capacity for promoting healing. Our furniture lines offer an ideal combination of form and function, with durable solid construction that conveys a home-like feel for patient rooms and group areas.

Aesthetically pleasing spaces that feature comfortable furnishings, soothing colors and natural light will enhance patient well-being and improve outcomes. We can assist you in humanizing your clinical environment, for the benefit of your patients, their families, and your workforce.