A Critical Review of Accident and Emergency Facilities Functionality: A Case Study of Uganda’s National Referral Hospital

Abstract

The functionality of an Accident and Emergency facility directly impacts on the possibility of living of any patient on arrival to that unit. It significantly influences the quality of patient care and the overall efficiency of the day to day activities, given that it acts as the first point of call for patients that come in a very critical state.  The purpose of the study was to examine the critical architectural design factors that affect the provision of emergency care services at the facility.  A descriptive and exploratory approach using qualitative data collection methods was adopted, involving an extensive review of existing literature and in-depth case studies with the leading case study being the largest and oldest national referral hospital in Uganda, Mulago. Data was collected through observation, literature and interviewing the users which included the medical staff, patients and their attendants at the facility. The study revealed that one of the critical factors for the functionality of these facilities is accessibility - site placement, egress, wayfinding and signages, entrances and the spatial layout of the facility. Furthermore, factors like privacy, security, safety and comfort were also of primary importance for the users’ wellbeing. Issues to do with spatial quality such as lighting, ventilation, acoustics and temperature greatly impacted the quality of emergency care. The caretakers at this unit expressed their dissatisfaction at the wait times, highlighting the need to reinvigorate the facility’s waiting areas design. Staff members also underscored the need for their privacy. The research revealed critical design lapses at the facility which negatively impact the quality of service

Keywords: Design, Functionality, Accident & Emergency (A&E) Unit.

DOI: 10.7176/ADS/110-01

Publication date: April 30^th 2024