Designing the nursing wards for a university hospital: a multifaceted approach on how architecture can stimulate care, education and research

Background: In 2029, the Ghent university hospital aspires to start using a new hospital building for all nursing wards. However, it was unclear what the lay-out and size of these nursing wards should be. In order to determine the optimal ward design, several aspects should be taken into account, such as the future nursing care model, future evolutions and developments, legal and environmental boundaries, etc. Aim(s): The aim of this study was to identify how architecture can help the nursing department to stimulate the core qualities of a university hospital: care, research and education. Methods: A Five-Phased study was used to determine the ward design. Amongst others, an extensive literature review of 12226 papers about nursing models, the challenges for nursing and nursing architecture was conducted. Through an iterative process of expert consultation, focus groups and brainstorm sessions, different elements were combined in order to determine the guidelines for a new nursing ward. Results: The new nursing ward has 12 beds (per unit), with a partial radial structure. This lay-out was the most optimal choice in supporting the possible nursing care model of primary or modular nursing. Furthermore, this small, standardized type of unit also provides the possibility to scale up if needed, or change the care trajectories of patients in a fast and fluent matter (i.e. in case of pandemic). Discussion: There is no clear-cut answer on which design fits best for the nursing ward of the future. Each hospital should take into account their vision and strategic choices concerning nursing care in the design of a new hospital with the use of stakeholders. Implications and future perspectives: Before designing a nursing ward, main principles and care values need to be determined in order to facilitate decision-making.