Emergency Department
Dr. Gray’s Hospital, Elgin
Following on from the success of designs we created for the Emergency Care Centre at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, OpenBoxDesign were commissioned to create information panels and signs for Dr. Gray’s Hospital in Elgin.
As with the work done for the ECC in Aberdeen, this has been a real highlight for us. Design of this nature has an inherent social benefit to the community and works on many levels. Knowing that this work has helped the medical services to ensure patients are directed, informed and even educated in the processes of medical treatment is something that we are proud of being involved in.
The Brief
The brief was to look at making the patient/visitor experience manageable and informative during what many see as a very stressful time. We researched the Arts Council paper on ‘Violence and Agression in A+E’ as well as studies in other large-scale A+E departments across the world.
The Process
From this initial research we completely revised the way that signage was created and also produced a rationale behind a series of information panels which explain the journey that patients take through the Emergency Depratment as well as informing of rights and responsibilities. Each Emergency Department (otherwise knows as A + E) has specific circumstances that need to be considered. This could be how, for example, waiting rooms are occupied – whether they are for those using the services of one department or many, or whether treatment diagrams should include scheduled patients or not. Then of course, we needed to address direction panels – how to get from A to B – and this radically changes between hospitals and departments. Although the over-aching design of the panels must be kept uniform, all the specific needs of a department need to be addressed.
The Result
Along with the Emergency Care Centre in Aberdeen, the project has been a resounding success with the Scottish Government now looking to roll out the same ethos across further hospitals in Scotland.
An update:
We have now rolled out panels and signage for four more hospitals in the North East of Scotland: Peterhead, Fraserburgh, Banff and Huntly.
OpenBoxDesign of Aberdeen were commissioned to provide a range of patient information panels and signs for the Emergency Department at Dr Gray’s Hospital in Elgin.
Throughout the design, consultation, and installation process, OpenBoxDesign were thoroughly professional and a delight to work with. The installation process was extremely efficient and caused no disruption to the running of the department. Their product is of the highest quality, robust and informative and has already received positive comments from staff and patients alike.
I am delighted with the work undertaken and would have no hesitation in personally recommending this company.