Design Manual
workflow design
& project planning
medical casework
Sustainable by design.
2009 Goelst International, LLC
CONTENTS
Laboratory
Design Manual
04
Learning Objectives
05
Clinical Laboratory Function
06
Types of Laboratories
08
Information Workflow
09
Laboratory Personnel
10
Benefitting from Goelst Modular Medical Casework
12
Laboratory Work Areas
12 Specimen Control
14 Blood Draw
16 Chemistry
18 Toxicology
20 Urinalysis
22 Hematology
24 Immunology
26 Microbiology
28 Pathology
30 Histology
32 Cytology
34 Support Areas
35 Satellite labs
36
Lab Design Basics
38
Laboratory Terms
39
Trends Impacting Laboratories
40
Laboratory Graphical Overview
42
Laboratory Product Spotlight
44
Basic Information Sheet
OBJECTIVES
0
Learning Objectives
Be comfortable in the laboratory environment
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Who are the key players within the hospital and laboratory staff ?
Who should you make initial contact with and, in the event that you
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FUNCTION
0
Primary Laboratory Function
The clinical laboratory market consists of scientific facilities that service healthcare
providers. Hospital laboratories are comprised of functional areas that perform analytical
procedures on a routine basis and develop clinical diagnostic research with an emphasis
on patient care. Hospital laboratories are generally operated 24 hours a day, seven days a
week. As a result of the large volume of work performed in laboratories the durability and
adaptability of the Goelst product line will facilitate both laboratory design and sales efforts.
Healthcare labs are typically divided into 5 categories:
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TYPES OF LABORATORIES
0
Types of Laboratories
Not all laboratory configurations will be the same. Depending on the nature of the work
being performed, labs will have specific requirements for personnel, equipment and
casework. All hospital labs will generally fall under one of the following categories.
Specimen Control
This is the central communication hub for all of the other hospital laboratories. This is
the point of origin and as well as the final collection point for all data calculated during
testing. This area will include multiple computer workstations to both examine and
catalog findings and to record physicians notes and patient chart information.
Blood Draw
When hospital outpatients require testing they will initially have there blood sample
taken in this area. From here samples are distributed by a Phlebotomist for testing.
Chemistry
The chemistry lab performs a variety of different functions but is generally concerned
with the analysis and composition of bodily tissues, fluids, and secretions.
Toxicology
Blood samples are analyzed in the toxicology/chemistry lab to identify and measure
specific substances found in the body. The level of narcotics, prescriptions, and other
foreign substances found in the body are all recorded by the Toxicologist.
Urinalysis
Patient urine samples are received, prepared, and analyzed in the urinalysis lab.
Hematology
Further testing of blood samples is performed in the hematology lab. Here technicians
determine cell counts, identify types of white cells, and research any cell abnormalities.
Blood Bank
The blood bank is the primary storage and preparation area for transfusion materials.
This lab will analyze, categorize, and administer various blood samples for transfusions.
Immunology
The immunology lab will perform a variety of tests concerning the human immune
system in order to prepare patients for defense and to discover causes of diseases.
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PERSONNEL
0
Microbiology
In the microbiology lab specimens are tested for specific disease causing
microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, viruses, parasites, and protozoa.
Pathology
Specimens are sent from surgery or the autopsy rooms to the pathology department.
Here characteristics such as shape, size, and weight are examined and recorded.
Histology
After specimens have been examined by the Pathologist they are sent to the histology
lab. Here slides are prepared so that specimens may be examined microscopically.
Cytology
The cytology department also prepares and analyzes microscope slides but is more
concerned with research and discovery of cancerous cell tissue. Pap smear tests will be
the primary procedure performed in the cytology department.
Satellite Labs
As with other hospital departments including pharmacies and nurse stations,
laboratories may also be decentralized to increase overall hospital efficiency and to
facilitate the execution of STAT orders and testing. These quick response labs will
generally support one or more of the following areas:
Surgery
Emergency Rooms
Radioimmunoassay (RIA)
Off-Site Clinics
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WORKFLOW
0
Information Workflow
Flow of Laboratory Information
Labs perform diagnostic tests and analyze a variety of specimens including bodily fluids, blood, urine, organs, and tissues. Individual departments will perform specific tests
on specimens to generate a variety of data that is ultimately used as a resource in disease prevention and treatment by physicians. Depending on the data that is required,
specimens may be analyzed in multiple departments. The diagram below displays the
relationship between various labs and the typical path of an analyzed specimen.
Blood
Bank
Reception
Immunology
Phlebotomy
RIA
Histology
Pathology
Stat
Lab
Specimen
Control
Chemistry
Cytology
Toxicology
Hematology
Microbiology
Glass
Washing
Urinalysis
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PHARMACY PERSONNEL
0
Laboratory Personnel
Lab Director/Chief Pathologist
The Lab Director is responsible for managing all of the daily operations and medical
services of the laboratory. The Lab Director will be a medical doctor and will also be
responsible for analyzing test results. The director will have the most influence on decisions regarding major investments including new equipment, casework, and laboratory
construction. The director will be primarily concerned with managing budget overhead,
efficiency of lab workflows, and improving function of various diagnostic procedures.
Chief Technologist
The Technologists will perform the majority of routine testing. They are also responsible
for quality control testing within various departments. The technologist may also be
responsible for various administrative tasks such as personnel management. The Technologist will be able to provide insight concerning end-user functions and requirements.
Medical Technician
The Medical Technicians serve as assistants to the technologists and will assist with
both routine testing and day-to-day laboratory tasks. Technicians may also serve as a
resource for defining specific end-user requirements in certain functional areas.
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ADVANTAGES
10
Benefitting from Goelst
Modular Medical Casework
As with most functional environments, no two laboratory facilities will be the same. Staffing, technical considerations, and frequency of patient turnover all affect laboratory size
and workflow requirements. It is important to understand how the Goelst product and
service process are engineered to provide custom solutions for all laboratory design
needs. The following points outline both the technical and financial advantages of designing with Goelst within the laboratory and other healthcare facilities.
Technical Advantages of Goelst Casework
The prominent aspect of Goelst casework is how drastically it differs from the fixed
millwork cabinetry traditionally found in healthcare facilities. The adaptability of Goelst
workplace configurations suits the constantly evolving needs of innovative work environments in ways that are simply unachievable by use of the millwork alternative.
The complete Goelst design process centers on the products modular capabilities. In
addition, the durable Goelst casework construction reinforces its potential uses within
a variety of different institutional applications. The following list of technical advantages
discusses how Goelst is designed to change in order to meet the expanding needs for
space and workflow optimization while meeting rigorous physical standards:
n
Modular construction allows for field repair and replacement of individual parts
should the need arise, thereby increasing the life and versatility of the product.
Goelst is engineered to provide multiple design reconfigurations. Modular construction adapts with the technology, personnel, and spatial needs of each facility.
The highest quality European engineered hardware combined with durable construction materials create a lasting functional product suitable for institutional use.
All product materials and design efforts including component hardware engineering are specifically catered to meet the high demands of healthcare work spaces.
Goelst casework products are held together by high-quality metal systems resulting in joinery that is multiple times stronger than conventional millwork furniture.
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ADVANTAGES
11
Additional Advantages
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Goelsts product inventory consists of over 75,000 standard line items enabling
any design solution to meet application specific needs and custom configurations.
Modular capabilities decrease the costly churn-rate for new casework that is
often associated with the use of millwork furniture during healthcare expansion.
Goelst installs in half the time of millwork carpentry and maintenance of the modular components is completed within minutes with the use of a single screwdriver.
There are no hidden costs resulting from prolonged installation schedules or unforeseen maintenance that is largely characteristic of the millwork alternative.
Compared to the 39+ year depreciation rate for millwork, the freestanding Goelst
casework will rapidly depreciate in only 7 years. This is becoming increasingly
important to for profit healthcare institutions.
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SPECIMEN CONTROL
12
Specimen Control
The Specimen Control area serves as the communication center for all laboratory departments. Here both inpatient and outpatient specimens are received and cataloged. Based
on the nature of testing required the samples are then expedited to the appropriate
laboratory department for analysis. Constant coordination is required between specimen
control and personnel from other departments. It is not uncommon to staff the specimen
control area 24 hours a day to maintain efficient workflow.
Goelst Modular Medical Casework Application
The following design recommendations should serve only as a guide. A thorough needs
assessment and specific end-user requirements should define all of the final project
parameters. Ultimately every lab design will remain unique based on the facility.
n
The specimen control area should remain in a centralized location. The specimen
control area may also require access by the public and a possible waiting area.
The specimen control area should be positioned in close proximity to the Chemistry,
Hematology, and Urinalysis Departments.
Ample counter and table space should be reserved for large equipment including
computer hardware and monitors.
The specimen control area may also require an integrated Pneumatic Tube System
for rapid distribution of specimens and data.
14 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces for technical areas
where specimens are prepared and organized for testing procedures.
11 Series sitting height base cabinets and work surfaces will be required for office/administrative areas and data entry workstations.
18 Series overhead storage cabinets and shelves will be required for storage of
charts, manuals, and reference documents.
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14 Series sink cabinets should be used where hand washing stations are required.
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SPECIMEN CONTROL
Automated
Station
13
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BLOOD DRAW
14
Blood Draw
The Blood Draw area is the common name for the Phlebotomy Department. Here blood
samples are drawn from patients in order to conduct various tests. This department will
typically be concerned with servicing the outpatient population. Since the Blood Draw
department collects and organizes such a high volume of specimens it will often share
space and equipment with the Specimen Control area.
Goelst Modular Medical Casework Application
The patient areas in this department may require additional seating and speciality beds
designed for patients giving blood. Privacy of patient care and efficiency of individual
procedures will be important concerns for the end-users.
Goelst casework products may include:
n
14 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces for technical areas
where specimens are prepared and organized for testing procedures.
11 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces will be required for
storage of testing materials and medical supplies.
20 Series G-Wall configurations will be ideal for creating privacy in the patient
areas. The custom G-Walls can be specified with both hollow and acrylic glass to
create individual patient areas that also increase visibility for staff members.
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BLOOD DRAW
15
Plan View of typical Blood Draw Lab
The Blood Draw/Phlebotomy Department will generally share
space with the Specimen Control area. In larger facilities the
Blood Draw area may be a separate area complete with outpatient services. The Blood Draw area may also require special
beds and chairs for those patients giving blood samples.
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CHEMISTRY
16
Chemistry
The Chemistry laboratory is by far the most high-volume, high-output department. The
chemistry lab will also require the largest number of personnel. Here specimens including bodily fluids, tissues, and other substances are tested for chemical composition.
The Chemistry lab will also include the most automated technology and may require
casework designs that integrate with a variety of technical machinery.
Goelst Modular Medical Casework Application
The Chemistry department will typically have the largest budget allocated for upgrades
including casework design. The Chemistry department will continually be expanding
its technological capabilities and will also require a modular casework design that can
quickly be updated to allow for periodic changes in workflow configuration. It is important to design labs regarding specific end-user requirements and functions.
n
Due to its high volume of testing the Chemistry Lab should also be located in close
proximity to the Specimen Control department.
The chemistry casework configuration will be mainly characterized by modular GWall lab benches. Due to the variety of testing there may be multiple benches that
require integrated gas, air, plumbing, electrical, and data wiring utilities.
In addition to lab benches, the Chemistry Lab may also require administrative/office
areas that include computer hardware, tack panels, and Slatwall components.
14 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces for technical areas
where specimens are prepared and organized for testing procedures.
11 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces will be required for
office/administrative areas and data entry workstations.
18 Series overhead storage cabinets and shelves will be required for storage of
charts, manuals, glassware, test tubes, petri dishes and other testing supplies.
14 Series SNK sink cabinets should be used for all hand washing stations.
Chemical resistant Trespa Tops will be the ideal worksurface material for this lab.
12 Series mobile pedestals are ideal for chemistry labs utilizing a variety of different procedures and materials. These cabinets can quickly be reconfigured to allow
for changes in workflow and repositioning of large scale equipment.
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CHEMISTRY
Automated
Station
17
The Chemistry Lab will by far be the largest and most complex
clinical laboratory department. The Chemistry Lab will also be
home to largest number of personnel. The area should include
a variety of technical workstations for which individual casework
configurations should be designed to suit. Freestanding tables
should be used to store large vibrating equipment, such as cen-
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TOXICOLOGY
18
Toxicology
The Toxicology Department performs diagnostic tests to determine the levels of specific
substances found in the body such as prescription medications, illegal or controlled
substances, also foreign and toxic chemicals.
Goelst Modular Medical Casework Application
The Toxicology Department will require lots of sensitive machinery that casework must be
designed around. Other large items including refrigerators will also be required.
n
If the Toxicology Lab contains samples of narcotic substances used in testing, than
a secure vault or locking cabinet configuration should also be included in the area.
14 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces for technical areas
where specimens are prepared and organized for testing procedures.
11 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces will be required for office/administrative areas and data entry workstations.
18 Series overhead storage cabinets and shelves will be required for storage of
charts, manuals, glassware, test tubes, petri dishes and other testing supplies.
14 Series SNK sink cabinets should be used where hand washing is required.
Chemical resistant Trespa Tops will be the ideal worksurface material for this lab.
12 Series mobile pedestals are ideal for chemistry labs utilizing a variety of different
procedures and materials. These cabinets can quickly be reconfigured to allow for
changes in workflow and repositioning of large scale equipment.
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TOXICOLOGY
19
Plan View of a typical Toxicology Lab
Toxicology Specimens are generally kept for six months to two
years. Adequate freezer storage space should be included in
the overall design for this area. Due to the presence of narcotics
and other sensitive materials security will be an issue for cabinets and casework in this area.
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URINALYSIS
20
Urinalysis
The urinalysis department is responsible for receiving, testing, and cataloging all patient
urine specimens. This is also a very high volume department characterized by constant
distribution of specimens and collected data.
Goelst Modular Medical Casework Application
The Urinalysis area is typically one of the smallest lab departments found in a clinical
hospital. There is usually only one technician present at a time.
n
Due to its high volume of testing the Urinalysis Lab should also be located in close
proximity to the Specimen Control department.
Significant counter space should be included to organize and consolidate the large
quantity of active specimens and patient charts.
14 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces for technical areas
where specimens are prepared and organized for testing procedures.
11 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces will be required for
office/administrative areas and data entry workstations.
18 Series overhead storage cabinets and shelves will be required for storage of
charts, manuals, glassware, test tubes, petri dishes and other testing supplies.
14 Series sink cabinets should be included where hand washing stations and
specimen disposal areas are required.
Chemical resistant Trespa Tops will be the ideal worksurface material for this lab.
Drawer Divider Systems are recommended to safely organize and store small
and breakable medical materials.
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URINALYSIS
Automated
Station
21
Urine Strip Reader - most procedures in this area will be fully automated by a variety of machines.
A urine strip reader may also be
required for inventory control
purposes.
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HEMATOLOGY
22
Hematology
The Hematology Department is responsible for analyzing and conducting tests of patient
blood specimens. Blood cell counts, identification of white cells, and research into blood
abnormalities are all conducted in this laboratory.
Goelst Modular Medical Casework Application
The Hematology Department is a very high volume testing area. This lab also conducts
numerous STAT test orders in which data must be collected immediately for patients in
emergency situations. As a result the Hematology Department will require a large staff of
technicians for whom significant preliminary planning of traffic flow patterns is required.
n
Due to its high volume of testing and STAT orders the Hematology Lab should also
be located in close proximity to the Specimen Control department.
The Hematology casework configuration will be largely characterized by modular GWall lab benches. There will be multiple workstations found in the Hematology Lab in
which G-Wall support panels can be used to increase privacy and organization.
14 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces for technical areas
where specimens are prepared and organized for testing procedures.
11 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces will be required for office/administrative areas and data entry workstations
18 Series overhead storage cabinets and shelves will be required for storage of
charts, manuals, glassware, test tubes, petri dishes and other testing supplies.
14 Series SNK sink cabinets should be included where hand washing stations and
specimen disposal areas are required.
Chemical resistant Trespa Tops will be the ideal worksurface material for this lab.
21 Series lockers should be used in the Hematology Department to benefit the large
number of personnel required to operate the lab.
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HEMATOLOGY
Automated
Station
23
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IMMUNOLOGY
24
Immunology
Technicians in the Immunology Department conduct intricate tests concerning the
human immune system. The goal of analysis done in this department is to determine
causes of specific diseases and also to learn how to best prepare individuals for defense of certain diseases.
Goelst Modular Medical Casework Application
Placing an emphasis on immunology testing is a relatively new trend for hospitals. Technology has only recently become widely available and sophisticated enough to justify allocating an entire immunology department. This means that designing immunology labs
can be challenging since hospital floors will typically not have planned to include one.
n
The Immunology area will be largely characterized by modular G-Wall Lab benches
that include support panels used to increase privacy and decrease noise levels.
The testing done in this department is challenging and requires an effective use of
space. This area should be kept furthest away from high traffic areas. Few end-users will ever be present in this area yet multiple workstations will be required.
14 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces for technical areas
where specimens are prepared and organized for testing procedures.
11 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces will be required for
office/administrative areas and computer workstations and printers.
18 Series overhead storage cabinets and shelves will be required for storage of
charts, manuals, reference documents.
Sustainable by design.
Chemical resistant Trespa Tops will be the ideal worksurface material for this lab.
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IMMUNOLOGY
Automated
Station
25
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MICROBIOLOGY
26
Microbiology
The Microbiology Department is responsible for examining specimens to determine the
presence of disease causing organisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites.
The microbiology department may be separated into sub work areas such as Bacteriology, Mycology, Virology, and Parasitology. These individual sections should be isolated
using negative air pressure systems to prevent accidental contamination to other areas.
Goelst Modular Medical Casework Application
The Microbiology Lab will utilize large work surfaces to prepare and organize samples.
These standing height work surfaces will need to be integrated with large scale testing
equipment such as incubation and inoculation chambers and refrigerators.
n
Due to the sensitive nature of some of the toxic organisms, large ventilation hoods
and other safety equipment may be required in the design.
The general location of the Microbiology department should be kept distant from
more populated and high traffic areas.
.
Goelst casework products may include:
n
14 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces for technical areas
where specimens are prepared and organized for testing procedures.
11 Series standing height base cabinets will require multiple drawers for storage
of numerous testing supplies and glass materials.
18 Series overhead storage cabinets and shelves will be required for storage of
charts, manuals, glassware, test tubes, petri dishes and other testing supplies.
Sustainable by design.
Chemical resistant Trespa Tops will be the ideal worksurface material for this lab.
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MICROBIOLOGY
27
Plan View of a Microbiology Lab
The Microbiology department will be a very complex area
complete with multiple sub-departments and large scale lab
equipment. Negative air pressure systems, inoculation chambers, fume hoods and refrigeration units may all be required
in addition to any casework products. Due to the sensitive
nature of the testing being done and the risk of accidental
contamination. microbiology labs should be kept generally
isolated from supporting lab areas.
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PATHOLOGY
28
Pathology
In the Pathology Lab organ and tissue specimens are sent by the surgery and autopsy
departments to be examined by eyesight to distinguish physical characteristics such
as size, weight, and color. After the initial physical examination is completed in the
Pathology Department, samples are then sent to the Histology Lab to be prepared and
examined under a microscope.
Goelst Modular Medical Casework Application
The Pathology Lab should reside in close proximity to both the autopsy and histology
departments. The Pathology Department will be characterized largely by multiple stainless steel or wet areas including a mobile stainless steel worktable.
n
Depending on the size of the department, ventilation and fume hoods may be
required for odor control within the physical examination areas.
Space may also need to be allocated for cold storage and refrigeration equipment.
Mobile pedestals may also be required for transportation of examination substances to and from storage areas.
.
Goelst casework products may include:
n
14 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces for technical areas
where specimens are prepared and organized for testing procedures.
11 Series standing height base cabinets will require multiple drawers for storage
of numerous testing supplies and glass materials.
18 Series overhead storage cabinets and shelves will be required for storage of
charts, manuals, glassware, test tubes, petri dishes and other testing supplies.
Sustainable by design.
Chemical resistant Trespa Tops will be the ideal work surface material for this lab.
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PATHOLOGY
29
Plan View of a Pathology Lab
The observations and examinations carried out in the Pathology Lab typically dont require the use of diagnostic machinery. Instead physical examination is conducted on the gross
cutting table. The gross cutting stations are typically made of
stainless steel due to the constant washing of the casework
that is required to keep the area sterile.
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HISTOLOGY
30
Histology
After organ and tissue samples have been examined by the eye in the Pathology
department, slides of each specimen are then prepared for further examination under a
microscope. In the Histology Department these microscopic slides are examined and
then subjected to a variety of sensitive chemical experiments.
The histology department must remain a very sterile environment. The casework products in this area are subject to a variety of chemical exposures including flammable and
explosive solvents as well as rigourous cleaning regiments. The casework configuration
must remain conducive to such a sterile and labor intensive work environment.
Goelst Modular Medical Casework Application
The Histology Department must also remain in close proximity to both the pathology
and autopsy areas to increase efficiency of workflow and traffic patterns. Casework configurations may include the presence of large scale diagnostic machinery including tissue processors, incubators, and fume hood units as well as multiple refrigeration units.
n
The modular G-Wall lab bench may be required in this area to provide access to
electrical outlets and other utilities supported by G-Walls hollow frame wire chaise.
Due to the variety of work being performed in this area there may be a need for
both sitting and standing height workstations.
Sensitive testing equipment may require placement on either freestanding worksurfaces or adjustable height mobile tables.
14 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces for technical areas
where specimens are prepared and organized for testing procedures.
11 Series standing height base cabinets will require multiple drawers for storage
of numerous testing supplies and glass materials.
18 Series overhead storage cabinets and shelves will be required for storage of
charts, manuals, glassware, test tubes, petri dishes and other testing supplies.
Sustainable by design.
Chemical resistant Trespa Tops will be the ideal work surface material for this lab.
www.goelst.com
HISTOLOGY
31
Plan View of a Histology lab
The Histology Lab will also require large scale lab equipment
including ventilation and fume hoods. Smaller equipment
such as cryostats, chemical water baths, and centrifuges
should be placed on freestanding tables and work surfaces.
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CYTOLOGY
32
Cytology
Similar to the Histology Lab, the Cytology Department also prepares and examines
slides of tissue cells under the microscope. The technicians in the Cytology Lab however
are generally concerned with the detection of cancerous cells in human tissue. The
typically workload consists of approximately 95% Pap smear examinations which are
generally outsourced from independent gynecological offices.
Goelst Modular Medical Casework Application
Due to the high volume of outsourced work the department tends to be very busy and
high-stress. Ergonomics of casework configurations are crucial to optimizing the overall
workflow in this area. Since the diagnostic procedures consist almost exclusively of
microscopic examination, the wok done in the Cytology department will generally be
performed at siting height.
n
The modular G-Wall lab bench may be required in this area to provide access to
electrical outlets and other utilities including gas lines and vacuum tubes all of
which may be supported by G-Walls hollow frame wire chaise.
Sitting height work surfaces and comfortable seating will be required due to the
long hours spent collecting and analyzing sensitive imaging data.
The layout and placement of any fume hoods, vacuum systems or other large scale
equipment found in this area should also be integrated into any casework design.
14 Series standing height base cabinets and work surfaces for technical areas
where specimens are prepared and organized for testing procedures.
11 Series standing height base cabinets will require multiple drawers for storage of
numerous testing supplies and glass materials.
18 Series overhead storage cabinets and shelves will be required for storage of
charts, manuals, glassware, test tubes, petri dishes and other testing supplies.
Sustainable by design.
14 Series SNK sink cabinets for cleaning sensitive chemical exposure areas.
Chemical resistant Trespa Tops will be the ideal work surface material for this lab.
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CYTOLOGY
33
Plan View of a Cytology Lab
The Cytology Department will need to suit multiple personnel
as well as a vast array of testing equipment. More sensitive
equipment such as centrifuges and staining machines should be
placed on freestanding table and work surfaces. Additional large
scale equipment including fume hoods may require integration of
vacuum and blower systems.
Sustainable by design.
SUPPORT AREAS
34
Support Areas
The clinical laboratory is generally considered to be a purely functional environment.
However larger healthcare facilities will include additional support/administrative areas to
supplement both the personnel and labor efforts of individual lab departments.
Glass Washing
n
A separate area or room that supports glassware turnover for various labs including
the chemistry department.
Due to the amount of cleaning done, this area should be finished in stainless steel.
Conferencing/Resource Library
n
This area serves is a communal meeting place for the laboratory staff as well as a
reference library that houses contemporary lab publications and manuals,
26 Series tables and 18 series overhead cabinets may all be used in conferencing.
Break Area
n
A separate room for coffee breaks and meals should be included on the laboratory
floor. This are is especially crucial for 3rd shift employees working long hours.
A variety of both standing height cabinets and overhead storage will be used here.
Space for microwaves, refrigerators, and other appliances should be considered.
Office/Administrative Areas
n
Separate offices will likely be required for administrative managers, lab directors and
supervisors including the chief pathologist and histologist.
Room for equipment such as computer hardware and printers as well as additional
accessories such as tack panels, Slatwalls, and task lighting may also be included.
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SATELLITE LABS
35
Satellite Labs
In an effort to increase efficiency particularly through the use of STAT orders, lab departments will often employ the use of satellite labs to supplement one or more of the
following clinical areas:
n
Surgery/Operating Areas
Emergency Department
The role of the satellite lab hierarchy will vary greatly depending on the size and function
of a healthcare facility. As a result, the individual needs of each satellite lab will remain
unique. A thorough needs assessment will be required to ensure that appropriate casework designs are applied to each satellite lab.
n
Sustainable by design.
DESIGN BASICS
36
Lab Design Basics
Although the functions and needs of each Laboratory will vary greatly depending on the
healthcare facility, there are a few general guidelines that can be applied to casework configurations designed specifically for functional areas including labs. The following information will apply to both specific product application and more general elements.
Goelst Product Application
n
G-Wall modules and support panels should be used to construct all freestanding lab
benches as well as to construct open frame pass-through work areas.
Add cantilevered shelves to G-Wall lab bench frames to provide easy visual and
physical access to stored materials, lab tools, and other testing equipment.
Trespa work surfaces will be appropriate for over 90% of clinical laboratory areas.
Epoxy resin work surfaces may be used where both highly corrosive solvents and
extreme temperatures are present.
Refrain from placing sinks back to back when using G-Wall lab benches. By
staggering sink cabinets plumbing utilities remain easily accessible.
Primary fixtures for gas, water, and vacuum utilities should be located on G-Wall frame.
Be sure to include significant electrical and data outlets to provide room for future
expansion and additional equipment. Use G-Wall frame chaise for wire management.
Sustainable by design.
Tack boards may be included on G-Wall lab benches at sitting height for organization.
Slatwall accessories may also be included to further organize lab and office tools.
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DESIGN BASICS
37
Lab Design Basics
The next set of guidelines are more general and have been included as a means of
enabling effective design of an overall laboratory department including floorplans and
relationships within multiple departments. These guides should are meant to facilitate
the collaborative effort between you and your clients.
General Design Guidelines.
n
Attempt to confine main utility access in and around walls and columns to make
servicing and maintenance easier and to keep contracting costs down.
Dont over complicate basic cabinet and lab bench configurations. End-users will
need to adapt and evolve functions based on the nature of the work.
Make sure both STAT and satellite labs are in high traffic and easily accessible areas.
Ample counter space should be included in all departments with high specimen
volume and areas requiring computer hardware, monitors and printers.
When designing large configurations around equipment such as fume hoods and
refrigerators be sure to use manufactures dimensions and size specifications.
Be sure to include the appropriate amount of disposal and hand washing sinks.
Be sure to include adequate storage for both lab materials and paper documents.
Be sure to include Lab Directors and end users in the both the initial needs
assessment and planning process to ensure accurate casework configurations.
Sustainable by design.
LAB TERMS
38
Laboratory Terms
Anaerobic Chamber An oxygen free chamber in used in Microbiology. Chambers range
in size from lightweight to over 400 lbs. Place on freestanding table adjacent to gas supply.
Automatic Pipetting Station This equipment is used in the Chemistry lab to automatically dilute solutions. It is small and lightweight and may be placed in almost any location.
Automatic Staining Machine This machine stains slides for microscopic examination in
the Hematology lab. This heavy equipment should be placed on a durable worksurface.
Blood Gas Analyzer Measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in blood samples. This
machine is lightweight. Its location should include room for a computer monitor and printer.
Cantilevered Any shelf or worksurface, supported by a structural bracket, that extends
beyond a frame. G-Wall lab benches will include cantilevered cabinets from its structure.
Centrifuge Diagnostic equipment that spins blood and other specimens to determine
molecular structure. Table-top models should be isolated on freestanding tables.
Coulter Counter Used in the Hematology lab, this machine completes cellular blood
counts. This machine is heavy and requires a work area in close proximity to a floor drain.
Cytometer This diagnostic machine will be found in the Histology, Cytology, and Hematology labs. It is used to provide data in graph from relating to cellular cancer research.
Dry Lab These areas use only electronic equipment and thus require only electrical and
data wiring utilities. Standard laminate finishes should also be sufficient in these areas.
Fume Hood This large scale piece of equipment is designed to limit the end-users exposure to biohazardous and particulate air by confining and re-circulating harmful exhaust.
Incubators Used in Microbiology, these machines very drastically in size and weight.
They should generally be isolated and kept away from high traffic areas and windows.
Microscopes Come in all different shapes, sizes, and functions. They should always be
placed at sitting height and on worksurfaces free of vibrating equipment like centrifuges.
Platelet Counter/Fibrometer Found in Hematology labs, this sensitive measuring equipment calculates clotting capabilities of blood samples. This equipment is often upgraded.
Reagent Rack Typically constructed of stainless steel these shelves are attached to GWall lab benches and include lips that prevent slippage of chemicals and lab equipment.
Water Baths Are used to perform a variety of diagnostic chemical and biological tests.
General purpose water baths are found in Immunology, Microbiology, and Chemistry labs.
Wet Lab Typically more complex labs such as Chemistry and Hematology these labs
require water utilities, drains, sink cabinets and are finished using mainly stainless steel.
Sustainable by design.
www.goelst.com
LAB TRENDS
39
Trends Impacting Laboratories
Technological Innovation
As lab equipment and instrumentation continues to become more sophisticated labs are
forced to constantly upgrade hardware and machinery to ensure commercial viability.
Lab environments are constantly in flux as a result of ever evolving equipment upgrades.
Casework configurations must be equally reconfigurable to accommodate for this shifting.
All lab departments are becoming increasingly automated. As a result more square footage and wire management capabilities must be included to compensate for machinery.
Sophistication and Volume of Testing
As technology and preventative means of healthcare rapidly evolve so does the variety,
sophistication, and volume of clinical laboratory procedures made available in hospitals.
As the amount of work being performed and volume of lab equipment rapidly increase so
does the need to maximize all functional space and control costs per square foot.
As flexibility of space increase in importance of lab design the reconfigurability of Goelst
casework will become critical in facilitating both lab sales and design efforts.
Overhead and Personnel
There is a high demand for skilled technicians and mid-level lab employees. As a result
directors will upgrade existing facilities in order to attract qualified applicants.
Lab designs are becoming increasingly more open in an effort to integrate lab staff Directors and subordinates use open floorplans to increase visual/audio communication.
Every effort, including that of casework, is being used to control lab operating budgets. Usage of space, workflow organization, and quick installation of Goelst all reduce lab costs.
Altering Appearance and Function
The rise in automated equipment as well as overall technological innovation have changed
the look and function of clinical labs to high-tech research environments.
Such innovation is decreasing the need for service utilities such as gas, air, and water and
increasing the need for computer date terminals, electrical outlets, and wire management.
Both the increase in digital equipment as well as pre-packaged and disposable lab supplies have virtually eliminated the need for long-term storage of lab testing equipment.
Computer workstations have increased the need for sitting-height work surfaces, counter
space for printer hardware, and storage space for manuals and reference documentation.
Regulations on general practitioners have increased outpatient services for clinical labs.
Sustainable by design.
GRAPHICAL OVERVIEW
40
Graphical Overview Lab Applications
Visual Reference Guide
This visual reference section features samples of suggested Goelst casework products
and their suitable pharmacy applications. For a comprehensive list of our entire product
catalog including available dimensions, please consult the Graphical Overview brochure.
11SBF
11FEF
11BBF
11TED
11FRD
11ONS
11DDS
11DRS
11ONP
14TRG
14TOD
18WFL
18WFC
14TED
14PTD
14FRD
14FVD
14BFF
14BBF
14MBF
Overhead Cabinets
Overhead cabinets are ideal for increasing storage and organizational space. 18 series
cabinets may be used in Tech Workstations, Order Entry, Offices, and Break Room areas.
18 Overhead Cabinets
18SDH
Sustainable by design.
18CSV
18PCS
18POS
18POS
18SBP
18SBB
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GRAPHICAL OVERVIEW
41
G-Wall and Cantilevered Shelving
G-Wall is the ideal Goelst product for maximizing floorspace and Pharmacy workflow.
G-Wall work areas may include Unit Dose, IV Admixture, Storage and Procedure areas.
20SLD
20RHD, 20RHS
20CTS
20SHD, 20SHS
20OMR
20SWS
20IWS
20OWS
20SPC
21DRS
21ONS
16 Tall Cabinets
21SEL
21TEL
21QDL
16ONS
21MDL
16SSF
16WLM
Worktops
HPL, Trespa, and Solid Surface worktops are all found in Pharmacies. In conjunction with
G-Wall, cantilevered worktops are used in Compounding, Storage, Office and Prep areas.
25 Worktops
25SSI
25RCW
25WWS
25CWP
25BST
25BFW
25TER
25SDS
25BKS
80SAT
Accessory Tray
for Slatwall
80SBH
Binder Holder
for Slatwall
80SFT
80SWO
Folder Tray
for Slatwall
Slatwall Rail
80TLF
Swivel Light
with Task Cord
80MWS
80MWP
80LVR (black)
Sustainable by design.
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
42
G-Wall
The G-Wall is a metal frame, stand-alone technical wall system
that provides the user the unique ability to incorporate a variety
of suspended overhead cabinets, base pedestal cabinets,
cantilevered shelving and work surfaces based on individual
needs. G-Wall is also a modular system that integrates data and
electrical wiring as well as gas and plumbing utilities making it
ideal for both offices and functional laboratory applications.
Sustainable by design.
www.goelst.com
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
43
5th Section:
= Remainder Plexi
4th Section:
= #Open
3rd Section:
= #Power-0
2nd Section:
=#
Toe Section:
= 169.5mm
Pedestal
11BBF1802920
Support Bracket
20WTB0101819
G-Wall Panels - 20 SHD
20SHD4206005
Finished End Panel
80FDE0104105
Sustainable by design.
44
Basic Information Sheet
General Information:
Number of Beds
Hospital Name
Laboratory Director
Fax Number(s)
Phone Number(s)
EMAIL Assistant
EMAIL Director
Lab Services:
Lab Type:
Satellite Labs:
Chemistry
Blood Draw
Toxicology
Specimen Control
Urinalysis
Hematology
Blood Bank
Histology
Immunology
Microbiology
Pathology
Cytology
Surgery
Critical Care
ER
RIA
Automation Systems:
Specialized Equipment:
Facility Planning:
Current Sq. Ft.
1-Year Expansion Plan:
Renovation
New Space
Sustainable by design.
www.goelst.com
NOTES
Notes
45
Sustainable by design.
Laboratory
Design Manual
46
workflow design
& project planning
Goelst, LLC
915 Bridge Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101 USA
medical casework