Built Environment Airborne Infection Control Strategies in Pandemic Alternative Care Sites.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare design
• Infection control
• Public health preparedness

Background:

• Healthcare facilities face capacity challenges during pandemics like COVID-19.
• Alternative care sites (ACSs) such as hotels and convention centers require modifications for patient care and infection control.
• Engineering solutions are paramount for effective infection control in ACSs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify design strategies for airborne infection isolation and biocontainment patient rooms.
• To enhance infection control potential within alternative care environments.
• To propose system modifications for ACS surge facilities to reduce infection risk.

Main Methods:

• Evaluation of infection control and environmental strategies in existing inpatient units.
• Proposal of system modifications for ACS surge facilities.
• Review of evidence-based strategies from biocontainment and standard inpatient rooms.

Main Results:

• Existing biocontainment and airborne infection isolation room capacity is insufficient for pandemic-level needs.
• Hospital planners can adapt strategies from specialized units for ACSs.
• Design-based strategies, particularly engineering solutions, offer the greatest impact on infection control.

Conclusions:

• Optimized air-handling systems with UV and particle filters are crucial for infection control.
• Interdisciplinary teams should apply design strategies for flexible surge capacity.
• Minimizing risk to healthcare workers and optimizing infectious patient treatment are key goals.