Notes for Boards: Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Risks in the Design of a Neonatal Unit (NNU)
Published on 01 May 2024
From: Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare Associated Infection Scotland
Summary of guidance on the design of a level NNU facility. Useful to IPC teams involved in design or refurb of facilities.
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There is limited technical standards and guidance currently available to aid decision making in respect of optimal design considerations when planning to undertake a new build, adapt, extend, or undertake refurbishment within a Neonatal Unit.
This document aims to support NHS Scotland boards by providing them with a summarised set of questions and answers which will signpost them to any applicable technical guidance documents and summarise key considerations pertaining to:
- functionality
- layout
- support spaces
- maintenance access arrangements
- water systems (including drainage)
- ventilation systems
In addition to design considerations, project teams must engage with HAI-SCRIBE and NDAP/KSAR processes. Neonatal units are high risk areas so particular care must be taken around protecting its water and ventilation systems during construction and there needs to be a robust commissioning plan from the outset.