What happens when medical supplies are not immediately visible or easily accessible in a high-pressure Cath lab setting?
A well-designed Cath lab is essential for maintaining high standards of patient care and operational efficiency. In such a high-stakes environment, every detail matters – from the placement of medical equipment to the accessibility of critical supplies. A poor use of design and materials can lead to delays, inefficiencies, and even compromised patient outcomes.
The use of CAD and BIM modelling tools that we provide, allows for precise planning and execution, ensuring that equipment is strategically placed for maximum efficiency. One of the most critical elements in design is the space required for the positioning of storage units and restrictions around the Theatre table and large lab machinery making standard cabinets with hinged doors an impractical option. Traditionally tambour doors have been used in this situation as the main alternative but more recently the Systeméd glass sliding door system has been more popular as offering numerous advantages in a clinical environment.
Why Glass Door Cabinets Matter in Cath Labs
A well-organised storage system in Cath lab can mean the difference between life and death. Having essential medical supplies visible, easily accessible and properly stored contributes to faster response times and enhanced workflow efficiency.
Key Benefits of Glass Door Cabinets
Quick Visual Stock Checking
The transparency glass doors provide allows for an instant visual inventory check, reducing the time spent searching for necessary equipment and helps ensure that supplies are always well-stocked.
Enhanced Safety & Durability
Aluminium-framed toughened glass doors provide an almost unbreakable solution that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. Toughened glass doors offer added protection by securely enclosing medical equipment; minimising the risk of contamination.
Cleanliness
Tambour doors will normally be left open all day leaving stock accessible and visible but also vulnerable to contamination and collection of dust. With the sliding glass door system, stock can be securely located behind a physical barrier and still be visible for stock checking and access.
Optimised Storage for Medical Consumables
Glass fronted mobile units, tall units, wall-mounted units, and base units all contribute to a streamlined storage system. Tall HTM71 storage modules, provide efficient storage of consumables and medical equipment, ensuring that everything is organised and accessible.
Aesthetics & Professionalism
Glass doors add a sleek and modern touch to any medical environment, making the space look cleaner and more professional. A recent project at Harefield Hospital showcased frameless toughened glass doors branded with the hospital’s logo, demonstrating how functionality and design can seamlessly merge.
Compatibility with Other Storage Solutions
Systeméd push-on dividers work seamlessly with standard shelf cabinets, ensuring ideal segmentation for commonly used flat boxes of wires and other catheter lab essentials. Additional storage options such as tambour door units allow for full access to components without the obstruction of hinged doors, making them a preferred choice in many Catheter Labs.
Other Design Considerations for Cath Labs
To further enhance efficiency, compact-grade worktops with rounded exposed edges provide a durable and safe workspace that does not deteriorate with age. Additionally, telescopic catheter holders and large baskets designed for long catheter boxes offer specialised storage solutions to protect delicate medical items from damage.
The Systeméd glass door cabinets, developed with expert input from healthcare consultants, ensure that storage solutions meet the high standards required in such critical spaces.
