# The Basics: Physical Environment & Equipment

Potential environmental improvements for any ED

Here is a checklist of basic changes and enhancements that can be done with minimal expenditure or changes. The easy ones are first; the harder, more expensive ones are later.

Equipment and supplies

Ensure easy, in-department access to:

Non-slip socks

Four-point walkers

Canes

Hearing assist devices (link to Pocket Talker)

Bedside commode

Condom catheters

Blanket warmer

Pressure-ulcer mattresses

Some recline-able arm chairs

Low beds

Physical Environment

Large face analog clocks in each room

Ample seating for visitors and family (at least 2 chairs in each room)

Easy access to food and drink

High-quality easy-to-read signage and way-finding

Raised toilet seats (removable)

Wheel-chair accessible toilets

Efforts at noise reduction (separate enclosed rooms, noise-deadening curtains)

Non-slip floors with no pattern

Adequate hand rails

Access to natural light