Building design and performan A comparative longitudinal assessment of a Children's hospital

Publication date: August 2014
Source:Building and Environment, Volume 78
Author(s): Cassandra L. Thiel , Kim LaScola Needy , Robert Ries , Diane Hupp , Melissa M. Bilec
The aim of this study was to conduct a whole-building analysis using a host of metrics, including green building metrics, with the goal of providing designers and healthcare providers quantitative data that can be used in their design and operations decisions. The intent was to fill a gap in the research, which previously analyzed only individual rooms, specific design elements, and green building metrics. Therefore, a comparative longitudinal assessment was completed that quantified the effects of building design on performance of a pediatric healthcare facility by comparing a new, LEED-certified hospital relative to its previous, traditional counterpart. This study found statistically significant improvements in productivity, staff satisfaction, and quality of care, including a 19% decrease in actual mortalities despite an 11% increase in expected mortalities (both P = 0.005). Children's energy consumption and electricity per square meter decreased over 50%, while water and sewage intensity decreased over 60% (all P < 0.001). In their LEED-certified facility, Children's significantly improved their productivity, quality of care, and staff satisfaction, in addition to utility intensity. These improvements can be credited to green building design, mechanical equipment upgrades, and organizational or cultural shifts related to Magnet nursing designation.