Improving PPE Compliance
UHN faced challenges with staff and visitor compliance in donning and doffing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) appropriately, particularly during the flu season when PPE usage was at its peak. The existing signage, while informative about the types of PPE needed for different precautions (Contact, Droplet, and Airborne), did not provide clear guidance on the safest order for donning and doffing the equipment. Additionally, isolation carts, which held the PPE, were disorganized, often containing incorrect or unnecessary items, further contributing to confusion. Language barriers added another layer of complexity to the process.
Situation
Task
The task was to create clear and intuitive signage that outlined the proper donning and doffing order for each type of precaution, addressing both wayfinding and sense-making needs, especially for those unfamiliar with PPE usage. The project also aimed to organize the isolation carts more efficiently to ensure that only the required PPE items were available. The objective was to improve compliance and safety, particularly during flu season 2019/2020.
Action
I led the design of a comprehensive signage system that provided clear, step-by-step instructions for donning and doffing PPE, using simple, universally understandable visuals and language. I collaborated with UHN’s infection control team to ensure that the signage adhered to medical standards. Additionally, I worked on organizing the isolation carts to streamline the PPE selection process, removing unnecessary items and ensuring that the right equipment was available in the right order. To address language barriers, I included visual cues and icons, alongside multi-language translations where possible. A user-centered approach was adopted, incorporating feedback from staff and stakeholders at various stages of the design process.
Result
The newly implemented signage and reorganized PPE carts were piloted during the flu season of 2019/2020, significantly improving PPE compliance among staff and visitors. The clear, easy-to-follow instructions reduced confusion, particularly for those unfamiliar with the donning and doffing procedures. The organized isolation carts minimized errors in PPE selection, improving overall infection control. The project successfully addressed key challenges, and the signage system was well-received by staff and visitors, with positive feedback on its clarity and utility.
Client
University Health Network (UHN) - Toronto Western Hospital Infection Prevention and Control Unit
Sector
Design Research, Healthcare
Responsibilities
Design Researcher, Designer
Project Duration
1 month
Site observation and space analysis performed
