Designing a locally adaptable low cost patient ward bed in Uganda: A case study of Atutur hospital, Kumi district
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Date
2018-11
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kyambogo University[unpublished work]
Abstract
Uganda, like any other developing country experiences challenges in providing access and
quality health services to its people. Uganda has tried to put in place the necessary
infrastructure though with limitations. Many hospital facilities that have buildings do not
have enough equipment such as beds to support the patient's numbers. Although World
Health Organisation recommends a global average of 25 beds per I 0,000 people, in
Ugandan hospitals, the density of beds stands at 5 beds per I 0,000 people. This condition
has left many Ugandans spreading mattresses or mats on the floor making it difficult to be
properly examined and also exposing the patients to various infections. This study therefore
set out to design a low cost general ward bed with improved functions using available local
materials. Specifically the study analysed the effects of the low bed patient ratio in health
facilities, developed a design of a low cost bed inspired by a Loxodonta, and produced a
prototype of a low cost general ward bed. The study used a case study design and studied
Atutur hospital in Kumi district. Respondents were purposefully selected and a total of 29
participated. Using in-depth interviews, observations and photography, the views of the
respondents were collected and used to design a low cost general ward bed. The design
developed was also based on the Loxodonta which is a common African gene. The final
prototype of the bed demonstrated that it is affordable and multifunctional.
Description
xiv,93p.:ill (some col)
Keywords
Designing., Locally adaptable., Low cost., Patient ward.
Citation
Akol, Otemor Bernard(2018) Designing a locally adaptable low cost patient ward bed in Uganda: A case study of Atutur hospital, Kumi district