Security and safety are important throughout healthcare facilities but especially in the emergency department. The UW Health University Hospital Emergency Department (ED) is a Level 1 Trauma Center and among the busiest in Wisconsin. Zimmerman developed renovation solutions for the ED entry vestibule, reception and waiting areas to provide improvements. Zimmerman worked with the ED’s clinical leadership and the hospital security director to identify the vision and goals. The following goals were identified to fulfill the project’s vision which was to improve the safety of patients, families and staff and the security of the entry space:
- Protect the emergency department from outside threats
- Improve visibility of patients and visitors entering the parking structure and ED
- Integrate security officers into the ED entry and make them visible
- Improve the position of the reception desk and provide a retreat path for staff
- Provide more waiting space for patients and visitors
Critical challenges required decisive action. Collaboration with staff and careful review analysis of detailed mockups allowed the team to efficiently vet design ideas.
Integrating a state-of-the-art metal detector required expanding the vestibule and creating a new operational workflow. Security was elevated by positioning personnel at a highly visible podium in the vestibule. The improved perspective s oversight of the parking lot and entry for rapid response to any potential hazards. The new, bullet-resistant and fully enclosed registration desk enhances staff safety while maintaining direct, personal interaction with patients. These strategic improvements dramatically strengthen safety, visibility, and the experience for everyone who enters the emergency department.
Our visionary team expanded the waiting room footprint into the existing parking deck, increasing overall seating by 40 percent. We designed a dedicated family waiting room to provide much-needed privacy and comfort during critical moments. The renovation also introduced a separate, serene waiting space for pediatric patients and their families.
