New Roswell Park ICU Unites State-of-the-Art Technology, Patient-Centered Design

Highlights of Intensive Care Unit include cutting-edge medical equipment, efficient use of space, natural design motifs

BUFFALO, NY — Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) unveiled a new Intensive Care Unit (ICU) that unites state-of-the-art technology with patient-centered design to support optimal care for those patients with the most sensitive medical needs. The design of the relocated unit was based on industry best practices and extensive input from RPCI’s clinical-operations team.

“The needs of our patients and their families guided this process from beginning to end,” said Donald L. Trump, MD, FACP, President and CEO. “We invested the time and effort to create a space that is calming and attractive, but also incorporates cutting-edge equipment and strategic design to enhance our ability to provide care effectively and efficiently. These features are essential extensions of the skill and the caring that our clinical staff provide, and great care can only happen when all these elements are present.”

The 8,000-square-foot unit, located on the eighth floor of RPCI’s main building, is 40 percent larger than RPCI’s existing ICU to accommodate for anticipated future growth.

The unit’s interior, designed by Laura Shoemaker, Senior Planner in RPCI’s Facilities and Planning Department, features natural motifs in warm, soothing earth tones, with circle and arc themes repeated throughout the space to convey connectedness and comfort. And, in accordance with New York State Department of Health requirements, each patient room features natural lighting, from large windows looking out on views of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus and downtown Buffalo.

The design also allows improved sight lines for enhanced visual monitoring of patients.

“Safety, adaptability and efficiency are the keys to this beautiful unit,” noted Maureen Kelly, RN, MS, Chief Nursing Officer. “From the multifunctional modular boom units and automated lifts to the accessible floor plan and zoned lighting design, every element of this ICU allows staff to work quickly but also anticipates the need for a high degree of attention and monitoring so we can provide the best care for our sickest patients.”