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