Validating a Building Prototype: A Post–Occupancy Evaluation of a Women's Medical Center

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Abstract
Objective: The validity of new building prototypes must be confirmed to support the design process for comparable future projects. This project involved a post–occupancy study at a new women's health center that provides single–room (labor, delivery, recovery, postpartum [LDRP]) maternity care. The evaluation had three objectives: (a) to test whether the intentions of the designers were effectively executed, (b) to provide feedback to the hospital about the new facility, and (c) to provide design guidelines. Research Design: Questionnaire, interview, and behavior mapping methodologies were utilized to collect data for this study. Analysis: Issues–oriented questions were analyzed to address design features such as patient–centered LDRPs and an open plan neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Behavior mapping studies were analyzed to examine nursing station use and staff/family behavior in the NICU. Key Findings: The LDRP unit was reviewed favorably, although specific improvements were suggested, such as providing footwall storage in the patient rooms and re–examining the use of decentralized nurse stations. The open plan NICU was also positively received by staff. Design guidelines were developed. Conclusion: Most of the design decisions were appropriate and can be emulated safely with a few exceptions. The LDRP model was well–received by staff with minor modifications suggested. Decentralized nursing was most effective when it was combined with a central staff gathering place. Maximizing storage at the baby stations in the NICU will permit staff to spend more time with infant patients.