Analysis of Staff Behavior in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

This study provides data on behavior associated with the redesign of a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The unit was designed to reduce the amount of time staff spent walking, so they could focus on activities supporting infants and their families. Access to natural light and windows were also provided in response to research indicating that exposure to natural light and views impacts health outcomes. Staff behavior was examined utilizing predesign research (PDR) and post-occupancy evaluation (POE) techniques. Generally, the new, open plan allowed the medical staff to achieve their pre-design goals.