Centralized and decentralized nurse station design: an examination of caregiver communication, work activities, and technology.

The healthcare construction boom requires evidence for effective design of nurse stations, including evidence supporting workflow processes, computerization, integration of technology, communication of caregivers, and optimal patient outcomes. This article describes the examination of a traditional centralized nursing station using a total patient care delivery model and minimal computerization and a highly computerized, decentralized nursing station using a team nursing model. Results specific to communication activities, time with patients, number of patient visits per registered nurse, and patient satisfaction with response time are reported.Key WordsPatient care unit design, ergonomics, healthcare workflow, medical-surgical unit, registered nurse work activities.