Site planning is a critical component to building a cath lab. Site planning involves the precise planning of each component to ensure sound functionality in the lab for the intended procedure(s). Site planning including the configuration of the equipment can be done smoothly and efficiently with the right people involved. In order to determine the best catheterization laboratory design for the space available, we suggest you have a site architect, equipment specialist and the physician(s) who will be performing procedures in the lab. Further, the equipment involived should not be too old as most cath labs are built to cover the program for at least 3-5 years.
Among all of the practical considerations when planning to build an interventional cath lab, you must consider the the key components... Functionality, the cath lab configuration for the intended procedures and cost!
In a perfect world, site planning for the cath lab is a breeze when space is not a factor. However in the real world, most facilities do not have the ‘dream’ specifications or space. With that being the case, we have identified specific components and design features that have been helpful in making the most efficient use of space.
Here are the Recommended Components of a Cardiac Cath Lab:
Procedure Room - The procedure room within the catheterization laboratory should be considered first when planning a cath lab. After all, this is why the cath lab exists! The ACC suggests 500-600 sq ft for the procedure area and 150-200 sq ft for the control room. The procedure room may also include counter space, storage, sink and computer terminals.
Control Room - The control room should allow control panels for the imaging & hemodynamic monitors. The control room is generally located near to the procedure room. The control room floor can be slightly elevated for a better view of the procedure room.
Patient Holding Area - Additional space for patient holding to provide patient assessment before and after the procedure. assessment and immediate post procedure care. The Patient holding area should have enough space for scheduling, documentation etc with bedside monitors for ECG, blood press and O2 sat.
Recovery Room - Recovery room is an important part of the cath lab as it not only enhances the experience of the patient, but assist with the flow & functionality of the lab.
Physician Changing Areas - The physician changing rooms are not always critical to be in the immediate suite when space is a limiting factor.
Family Waiting Area - The family waiting area is generally in close proximity to the procedure room to allow family & loved ones to be close to the patient and makes it easier for the cardiologist to visit the family before or after the procedure.
Locker / Lounge for Staff
Equipment Storage Space - The equipment storage area should also be configured with cabinetry to hold catheters, guiders, balloons, stents and guide wires.
Cath Lab Equipment - Equipment within a cardiac & vascular catheterization laboratory can include imaging equipment, hemodynamic monitoring equipment and data storage.
Imaging Equipment - Imaging is a key component of the cath lab. The facility should select equipment based on program needs (current and long term) and physician/staff preferences, while still keeping in mind the hospital’s financial constraints.
Image Intensifier (I-I) - Image Intensifier sizes can differ depending on the application. For example, cardiac will usually have smaller I-I where as peripheral requires a larger I-I for a larger area of focus & magnification. Peripherals require a full table panning to cover both legs. Peripheral run off studies and bolus-chasing are often used for peripheral interventions.
Flat Panel - Flat panel technology is now considered a superior method of imaging while reducing the dose to the patient. Flat panel technology tends to be more useful to those performing peripheral interventions due to the larger size panel.
Rotational Angiography - which allows for 3-D imaging of the arteries for use in peripheral & cornonary angiography.
Hemodynamic Monitoring Equipment - Hemodynamic monitoring equipment is an important component for peripheral & cardiac angiography. Hemodynamic monitoring gives you various wave forms and vitals needed during a procedure.
Table options - The table needs to be large, function with a minimum of ninety degree lateral movement. Tables may be floor or ceiling-mounted depending on the room size. Other items include table accessories, lighting, injection systems & radiation shields.Make sure that the table weight capacity is as high as possible.
Lighting - Soft perimeter lighting with the ability to dim during the procedure with one or more overhead surgical lighting.
Doors - Wide doors help improve accrss into the procedure room & provide easy patient transport.
Data Access & Storage - Access to patient information has traditionally been labor intensive and time consuming. This is where technology has improved alling you to save time, space and personnel costs associated with hard copy storage.
For more information click interventional cardiac catheterization lab facility & equipment standards
