ICU Problem and Potential Solutions

Group 4Amyruth Stevens

Chauncey MyshkinLeang Chhun

Problem

• Trashcans create obstacles in rooms• Unaccounted in the room layout• They are placed in the room at the convenience

of the staff• Frequently create a barrier to other features in

the room

Solutions

• Integrating nurse trash receptacles and sharps receptacles for needles

• Easily accessed, cleanable, and serviceable• Integrated into the design of the room and better

serve nurses

Solution 1

• In-wall waste unit that is accessible from the outside as well as the inside of the ICU

• The unit will be easily accessed and sterilized by custodial staff

• Eliminates the need for custodians to enter the patient room as frequently

• Less distraction and disruption to patients, family, and clinicians.

Solution 2

• A rolling cart that will be able to enter ICU rooms, bring in supplies, and take everything back out of the ICU to be re-sterilized at central waste unit.

• The carts will be fitted into a “home” in the room which will accommodate the exact size and shape of the mobile cart

• Additional features of the cart such as a small writing area or fold out seat will also be considered features of our prototype.

Alternate Solutions/Concepts

Trash chutes direct patient room trash into a centralized waste management, possibly vacuum tubes.

A waste receptical that functions and appears as a rolling chair or stool

Corridor-like room for trash removal from rooms without interruption, like a restricted hallway between rooms for trash and laundry

Integration of nurses station with trash station

Reminder/Checklists integrated into disposal station

Move out old storage areas to accommodate

Can/should we use a compactor