Use of Single Patient Rooms versus Multiple Occupancy Rooms in Acute Care Environments

Although the current market trends are leaning strongly toward a single occupancy acute care bed rooms, there is a huge inventory of double occupancy bed rooms still functioning and playing a vital role in the delivery of the nation’s healthcare. This report raises questions as to whether double occupancy bed rooms are detrimental to patient care and staff morale. It should be emphasized that, although this document is based on a comprehensive literature search, the remaining components of the study are a pilot sampling only. Ideally, a more comprehensive follow-on survey could be funded and would add to the validity and impact of the findings.