Lean ICU Layout Re-Design: A Simulation-Based Approach

Healthcare facilities require flexible layouts that can adapt quickly in the face of various disruptions. COVID-19 confirmed this need for both healthcare and manufacturing systems. Starting with transfer decision support systems from manufacturing, paper generalizes layout re-design activities complex by presenting a simulation framework. Through real case study concerning proliferation nosocomial cross-infection an intensive care unit (ICU), model developed dynamics, based on zero order immediate logic, allows reproducing evolution different agencies (e.g., physicians, nurses, ancillary workers, patients), as well cyber-technical side ICU, its general but also local aspects. The entire global workflow is theoretically founded lean principles, goal balancing minimal patient throughput time maximum efficiency optimizing resources used during process. proposed framework might be transferred to other wards adjustments; hence, it has potential represent initial step modular depiction facility.