Nursing homes are more than most medical buildings or residential apartments. They are a combination that makes nursing home construction a complex task. After all, a properly designed facility can help make life more comfortable for residents and support employees in their efforts to work efficiently. What goes into creating successful nursing home construction plans? In our experience of building nursing homes, we’ve noticed these five elements are essential. If you’re looking to build a nursing home shortly, we hope this list will help you.
Nursing Home Construction Elements
Selecting a Nursing Home Contractor
Working with an experienced nursing home builder means that you’ll be working with a professional who knows how to incorporate must-have features smoothly. They’ll also be prepared to help you avoid common pitfalls. Ideally, you want a partner with a solid reputation who can communicate clearly, act professionally, and deliver a quality product.
Meeting Codes and Standards
Nursing homes and assisted living facilities must meet all relevant state and federal building codes and standards. If there are plans to care for patients who have Medicare or Medicaid, there are specific federal standards for healthcare facilities that must be met. Knowledgeable nursing home contractors keep on top of those ever-changing rules and regulations. The right nursing home construction company will stay current on these regulations so that compliance issues don’t cause a problem.
Planning for Accessibility
While some residents will be ambulatory, many will require mobility aids like canes, walkers, or wheelchairs. Planning for accessibility is vital. Ensuring that the facility meets the standards set out in the Americans with Disabilities Act is key. CBF Contracting understands ADA compliance in all types of buildings. Expect wide doorways and halls and open rooms that allow for easy maneuverability. Trip hazards should be avoided, floorplans should be designed to optimize traffic flow, and communal spaces should be in central areas easily reached.
Preparing for Safety and Security
Nursing homes function as both medical spaces and homes. With their dual nature, they have unique needs. The facilities must be constructed with certain security features in mind to keep residents and staff safe. Accommodations need to be made for the secure storage of hazardous materials and medical equipment. The personal items of residents and staff also need safe spaces. In addition, entries and exits from the building and sensitive areas need to be designed with security in mind. If you plan on offering dementia care, those residents may be prone to wandering. Creating floor plans that minimize distress and maximize safety for residents is key to nursing home construction.
Consider Maintenance, Efficiency, and Sustainability
The integrity of the building is a priority in any setting that delivers healthcare services. Incorporating materials that are low maintenance is a bonus. Choosing materials that will last for years is just one of many things an experienced nursing home builder knows to do. They’re also aware of the value of using technology to boost efficiency and the growing interest in using sustainable materials and energy-efficient designs.
When you’re ready to build a new nursing home or assisted living facility, reach out to a commercial contractor you can trust to do the job right the first time. CBF Contracting has completed commercial and industrial construction projects for over 40 years. Our primary objective is our client’s satisfaction, so we work diligently to ensure every project is completed to the highest standard. To discuss your project, contact us today.
