The Stakes are High When It Comes to Airflow
The risk of serious healthcare associated infections (HAIs) is increased in environments where airflow has not been
optimized. Consider the statistics:
► The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has found that one in twenty patients will contract an
HAI while receiving treatment in a healthcare facility.
► Experts estimate that 10% to 20% of HAIs are transmitted through airborne mechanisms.
► The impact of HAIs on patients can't be understated. In 2002, CDC research found that 1.7 million patients
acquired HAIs in U.S. hospitals and around 99,000 died from them.
The Benefits of Facility Airflow Modeling and Analysis
Including facility airflow modeling and analysis as an extension to design and engineering efforts can deliver important
benefits to healthcare organizations.
► Prevent the spread of airborne contaminants. Air flow modeling and analysis identifies factors that affect
transmission of airborne contaminants. Particular attention should be paid to designing airflow in ways that
ensure sterile conditions at surgical sites. The goal is laminar, downward airflow to mitigate any recirculation
around the patient.
Or original design.
Optimizing room temperature in an Or.
Eliminated recirculation around patient
with optimized design.
Equally important are recovery rooms.
Air flow modeling and analysis can also help organizations identify potential solutions, such as the number and
location of HEPA filters, the layout of personnel and equipment within the room, and the location of low-wall
returns. Low-wall returns, for example, can prevent "dead zones" and recirculation.
► Optimize facility temperatures. The temperature in healthcare facilities plays and important, but often
overlooked role in patient recovery. Room temperature response is critical during the recovery process,
especially for infants. Air flow modeling and analysis can highlight areas where the number or p lacement
of low-wall returns could improve room temperature response. Environmental conditions, like temperature,
also affect patient satisfaction.
