Design of a standard radiography room.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to review the literature regarding the design of standard x-ray rooms focusing on equipment layout and architectural design in order to help the local radiology management when setting up new rooms or when improving existing facilities. Selected existing rooms at the radiology department at St. Luke's Hospital were subsequently assessed in the light of these guidelines. The main database used for this literature study was the Medline Database (Pubmed) whilst the keywords used included Radiological Facilities, X-Ray Room Setup, X-Ray Room Design and Radiation Protection. An important resource for the study was the NHS Estates design manual, 'Facilities for Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology'. This was supplemented by other guidelines found in the literature. The purposed guidelines were summarised in the form of a checklist for enhanced ease of use. The main conclusions of the study were that the design of the standard x-ray room should be done by a multidisciplinary team that should follow the guidelines provided by local Hospital Planning boards and Local Radiation Protection Authority and that the proper design contributes to better staff morale, image quality, job performance, increased work satisfaction, patient ease and comfort, and radiation protection. Recommendations include suggestions on the role of the radiographer in room design, the upgrading and improving of rooms 3 and 11 at the Radiology Department at St. Luke's Hospital and further study in other areas such as the assessment of other rooms in St. Luke's Hospital, Boffa Hospital and Healthcare Centres and the study of how design of standard x-ray rooms should be adjusted for paediatrics and geriatrics to achieve cater for their special needs.