Brigham & Women’s Hospital 12,300 SF endoscopy center renovation included a three-phased modernization of the existing department and expansion into the existing vascular imaging suite. The project created eight licensed procedure rooms and expanded the number of patient pre-op and post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) to include 21 stretcher bays. The renovation allowed for the PACU to be sized in accordance with current standards and increased the quality of space and care provided to patients.
The project phasing ensured both the endoscopy center and vascular imaging suite could continue treating patients during construction by relocating vascular imaging to a separate area before starting the phased renovation of the expanded endoscopy center.
The detailed programming for this space was crucial and involved multiple meetings with the end users to design a functional space. The renovated endoscopy center now includes a reception waiting room, a PACU with 21 stretcher bays, including a patient-of-size room, two nurse stations, and an exam room, along with eight procedure rooms, expanded fluoroscopy imaging, and new pass-through scope processors and drying cabinets. The three distinct zones of the PACU, procedure rooms, and scope processing rooms are clearly defined.
The suite utilizes BWH’s main design standards for furniture and finishes while subtly incorporating new elements to provide a distinct, modern look. Subtle tones of blue reinforce the feel of a calming environment. The PACU includes linear and perimeter lighting around the core to provide comfortable lighting for patients in stretchers. The curved angles in the soffits create clear wayfinding for patients to the two nurse stations. A floor pattern provides aesthetic interest and visual separation for walking pathways and storage. Unique, curved lighting was also an important visual component in the design of the waiting area and guides patients’ entry to the PACU.
The suite consists of four procedure rooms, two mobile fluoroscopy procedure rooms, and two fixed fluoroscopy rooms specifically designed for Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) procedures, making a total of eight procedure rooms. The design of all the procedure rooms starts with an equipment and monitor boom positioned at the center of the room. A procedural zone with LED fixtures provides either normal lighting or green lighting to reduce perceived light levels and enhance the visibility of procedural monitors, while also increasing overall lighting levels in the room.