Neurological Intensive Care Unit Expansion Complete at Johnston-Willis Hospital

RICHMOND, Va. — Gresham, Smith and Partners, a leading multi-disciplinary design and consulting firm to the built environment, is pleased to announce the completion of a neurological intensive care unit (Neuro ICU) expansion at CJW Medical Center’s Johnston-Willis Hospital, part of the HCA Virginia Health System.

The Neuro ICU was expanded from six to twelve beds and incorporates the latest in neurological technology. Upon completion, Johnston-Willis Hospital became the first hospital in Virginia and among the first in the United States to offer double boom technology within a Neuro ICU. The expanded ICU allows the facility to better treat the growing number of patients in the community requiring Neurological services and has been designed with a focus on improved patient and staff satisfaction.

“GS&P worked closely with our team to develop a design solution focused on meeting the needs of our staff and supporting their ability to treat and provide expert care to patients within this department,” said Peter Marmerstein, Chief Executive Officer, CJW Medical Center. “Evidence-based design solutions and amenities focused on improved patient care, healing and comfort are evident as you walk through the department. The updated unit now matches the superior level of care that is offered by our top rated neurosurgeons, nurses, and staff.

Patient rooms accommodate the introduction of the double boom technology located over each patient bed and have been designed to orient patients towards a window view to the outdoors. Flat screen televisions and wireless internet access are provided as an amenity for patients and family members. The patient room design includes glass panels on the interior walls which allows natural light to filter through the patient room to the corridors.

The use of warm, natural finishes and the infusion of natural light help to create a feeling of renewal and wellness. Wood finishes, resin panels and nature-inspired photos adorn the unit  creating a soothing atmosphere in a department that is often  stressful for patients and families. Updated signage was designed and used throughout the department to improve staff and visitor wayfinding.

“We are proud of our continued relationship with CJW Medical Center in support of their ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life within their community through state-of-the-art healthcare services,” commented Ken Priest, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, principal-in-charge, Gresham, Smith and Partners. “Patient safety, improved patient outcomes, operational efficiency and staff satisfaction were the driving forces behind our design solution.”

GS&P has provided a number of services for CJW Medical Center including the original design of CJW Johnston-Willis hospital in 1978 and a 48,000-square-foot expansion and renovation to accommodate a phased modernization of the surgical suite and Gamma Knife addition. The firm also designed the five-floor Levinson Heart Hospital cardiac tower on the Chippenham Campus.

About GS&P
Gresham, Smith and Partners provides design and consulting solutions for the built environment that contribute to the success of national and international clients. For more than 40 years, GS&P has focused on enhancing quality of life and sustainability within communities. GS&P consists of industry-leading professionals practicing architecture and engineering design as well as scientists and highly specialized planning and strategic consultants in Transportation, Water Services, Land Planning, Aviation, Corporate and Urban Design, Environmental Compliance, Healthcare and Industrial Design Services. GS&P consistently ranks among the top architecture and engineering firms in the United States. For more information regarding GS&P, visit www.gspnet.com.