Sensory-Based Design & Epilepsy: Analyzing effects of design innovations on patient treatment and recovery

Abstract

The patient room has more influence on neurological, physiological and biological responses than any other area within a healthcare environment. When it comes to the treatment of epilepsy, the patient room often acts as a refuge from and instigator of seizure activity, depending on patient condition or status. Inspired by this dichotomy, this research report explores specific design parameters that affect the spectrum of epileptic treatment, from instigation to recovery. At its core, this research identifies specific environmental elements that can assist in instigating an episode and recovery post seizure. Inclusions: Patients between the ages of 18 and 65 who are admitted for monitoring purposes only. Exclusions: Post-surgical procedure patients. Patients who are admitted for any type of pre-surgical procedure. Patients who are admitted less than two days. Limitations: The Epilepsy Monitoring Unit was designed as a Medical Surgical Unit.