ABSTRACT
Antibiotic resistance is a growing problem worldwide. Several measures are taken when identified carriers of antibiotic resistant bacteria (such as MRSA) are admitted to a hospital: patients stay in an isolation room and healthcare workers have to put on personal protective equipment (PPE) before entering the isolation room. Previous research on experiences of isolated care shows that patients felt lonely, forgotten and stigmatized while healthcare personnel felt guilty for bundling their contact moments. Therefore, an innovation project has been set up to re-design the concept of an isolation room: the isolation room of the future. The isolation room of the future concentrates around providing enhancements for communication and interaction, comfort and accessibility and architecture and interior design, while taking into account the infection prevention regulations for isolation rooms in hospitals. The interior of the isolation room of the future consists of biophilic elements, including photo wallpaper, transparent walls, surfaces that mimic natural materials, and natural and dynamic light;creating a positive healing and working environment for patients, staff and visitors. Transparent walls also allow easy communication between patients and healthcare workers without the need for the PPE. Furthermore, a transfer hatch is installed to easily serve meals and drinks to the patient. A modular furniture set-up will ensure the most optimum use of space in the room. The isolation room of the future does not necessarily need to be built as a whole;specific elements can implemented depending on needs, finances and possibilities. We hope that these practical solutions might inspire healthcare facilities worldwide to re-think the concept of an isolation room to improve the experiences of people involved in isolated care. This approach is useful for a broader range of infections with pathogens that require isolation precautions, among which SARS-CoV-2. Key messages A change on perspective of isolated care is needed. Although based on experiences with resistant bacteria, the isolation room of the future useful for a broader range of infections with pathogens that require isolation precautions.