An Efficient, Calming Environment

Every moment is crucial in pediatric emergency care environments. The Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City knows this all too well and engaged us to enhance patient flow within their emergency department, ensuring a higher quality continuum of care in a high-stress environment. The existing space was too small, dark and overstimulating, leading to site lines that caused safety concerns among staff. With our commitment to innovative design solutions in pediatric healthcare environments, we designed an expansion and remodel that creates a more efficient and welcoming environment for young patients and their families.

Emphasizing Flow and Welcome Distractions

To achieve the vision of a more functional and inviting emergency department, we implemented a comprehensive redesign that marks it as the premier facility of its kind in the Kansas City area. The new open floor plan enhances visibility and safety, allowing for better staff monitoring and patient flow.

Key features include:

• Enhanced patient flow through security and increased visibility from the check-in desk.
• A 60-foot-long Seek & Find mural wall, featuring 50 hidden images, serves as a positive distraction for patients and siblings.
• Streamlined flow through triage areas to reduce wait times and improve service delivery.
• Organized patient flow ensures treatment in appropriate acuity spaces, enhancing the overall waiting experience.
• Custom graphics and seating nooks provide quiet areas for children needing a break from the bustling environment.
• Artwork created by patients is featured near the entrance.

The expansion and remodel of the Children's Mercy Emergency Department not only improves operational efficiency but also significantly enhances the patient and family experience. The colorful, whimsical design alleviates stress, making visits to the emergency room a little less daunting for children and their families while providing excellent care.