Dual-Height Nurse Workstation Layout for Seated and Standing Computer Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional nurse stations are inefficient for ambulatory nurses who need to access computers frequently, as they require cumbersome movements between sitting and standing positions and lack adequate work surface space, while also exposing clutter and compromising aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A dual-height workstation with adjustable, aesthetically pleasing design featuring standing and sitting surfaces, hidden electronic components, and articulating display arms to facilitate easy access and reduce clutter, allowing nurses to use computers in either position without obstructing patient interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional nurse station is designed with a single sitting-height work surface, then administrative nurses can comfortably perform data entry tasks, but ambulatory nurses must make cumbersome movements to access computers and lack adequate work surface space
Solution Approach 1:
The workstation is segmented into two distinct work surfaces: a lower sitting-height surface for administrative tasks and an upper standing-height surface for ambulatory nurse access. This segmentation allows each surface to be optimized for its specific user group without requiring the entire structure to accommodate both needs simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension to the workstation design by adding an upper work surface above the traditional lower surface. This dimensional expansion enables ambulatory nurses to access computers at standing height without requiring lateral movement or bending, while sitting nurses continue to use the lower surface comfortably.
2Ease of operation
If electronic components and equipment are stored openly at the nurse station, then accessibility is improved, but the station appears cluttered and aesthetically displeasing
Solution Approach 1:
Electronic components such as computers, monitors, and networking equipment are extracted from the visible work surfaces and placed into concealed compartments within the workstation structure. This extraction maintains aesthetic appearance by hiding clutter while preserving functionality through easy access via removable panels or doors.
Solution Approach 2:
Electronic components are nested within the workstation's structural framework, placing equipment inside hollow compartments formed by the workstation's legs and supports. This nesting approach conceals equipment within the existing structure, maintaining a clean appearance while keeping items accessible when needed.
3Reliability
If a nurse station includes complete surrounding structure to close off the space, then privacy and security are improved, but access for ambulatory nurses becomes restricted and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The workstation structure incorporates dynamic elements such as removable panels, sliding doors, or fold-down sections that allow the enclosure to be opened or reconfigured when ambulatory nurses need to access the upper work surface. This dynamic design maintains security during normal operation while enabling easy access when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The surrounding structure is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides privacy and security for sitting nurses during normal operation, while also accommodating standing nurses through integrated access mechanisms. The structure acts as both a protective enclosure and a facilitative framework for different user needs.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a small standing-height surface is provided for ambulatory nurses, then their periodic needs are met, but the surface area is insufficient for adequate work space
Solution Approach 1:
The work surface is segmented into two separate surfaces at different heights: a lower sitting-height surface with adequate area for administrative tasks and an upper standing-height surface with sufficient area for ambulatory nurse work needs. This segmentation ensures each surface has appropriate dimensions for its intended use without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
By adding the upper work surface in the vertical dimension, the patent provides adequate work surface area for standing nurses without reducing the area available at the lower sitting-height surface. The vertical separation allows both surfaces to maintain sufficient dimensions for their respective functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A work surface arrangement comprising a support structure extending upward from a base end, a first work surface forming member supported by the support structure at a first vertical height, a second work surface forming member supported by the support structure at a second vertical height and extending to a first side of the support structure where the second vertical height is lower than the first vertical height, the second member including an undersurface, a first cover supported by the support structure and extending downward below the first member to a lower edge below the second vertical height, a second cover supported by the support structure and extending downward from a height proximate the undersurface of the second member and spaced from the first cover to bound a cavity, at least one horizontal channel supported by the support structure between the first and second work surface forming members to face the first side.