KJCKorea
Journal Central

Purpose: This study aimed to experimentally analyze the effectiveness of an Upper-Room Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UR-UVGI) system in reducing airborne bacteria in a mock-up of a multi-bed general ward. Multi-bed hospital wards pose a high risk of cross-infection via airborne pathogens. Since existing ventilation systems alone have limitations in infection control, evaluating the applicability of UR-UVGI systems is essential. Methods: The experiment was conducted by varying ventilation rates and UR-UVGI operation conditions. Bacillus subtilis (ATCC 6633) was aerosolized from one bed using a nebulizer, and airborne bacteria were collected from the other beds and the HVAC terminal using an impact sampler. UV-C intensity was measured to evaluate its spatial distribution across the room. The quantified bacterial concentrations were used to calculate reduction rates and equivalent air change rates (eACR). Results: Operation of the UR-UVGI system significantly reduced airborne bacterial concentrations under all conditions. A correlation between UV-C intensity and bacterial reduction rates was observed. The equivalent air change rate (eACR) increased by up to 2.97 ACH. Implications: This study experimentally demonstrated that UR-UVGI systems can effectively complement existing ventilation systems as an infection control measure in multi-bed wards. These findings provide scientific evidence supporting the implementation of UR-UVGI systems in hospital settings and are expected to contribute to improved infection control and energy efficiency in healthcare facilities.

Purpose: This study aims to analyze mobile hospital platforms from an architectural perspective and propose planning strategies for factory-built modular hospitals as an effective solution for emergency medical response. Methods: Four mobile hospital types—tent, vehicle, container, and modular—were evaluated using six criteria: floor configuration, scalability, adaptability, speed, mobility, and stability. Case studies, production data, and deployment simulations supported the analysis. Results: Factory-built modular hospitals showed superior adaptability, structural reliability, and functional flexibility. Unit-based planning allowed scalable and rapid deployment aligned with emergency care needs. Implications: Modular hospitals can serve as long-term emergency infrastructure. Planning should support modular integration, quick installation, and functional zoning for resilient healthcare delivery.

Purpose: This study aims to develop spatial planning guidelines for secure wards in acute psychiatric units, focusing on the therapy area. The guidelines address the need for therapeutic environments that support intensive care, recovery, and reintegration of patients with severe mental illness. Methods: The study analyzed the spatial organization of 24 acute psychiatric wards in Korea and compared them with international guidelines from Australia, the UK, and the US. Based on this analysis and expert consultation, spatial planning guidelines were developed for therapy area. Results: Detailed planning elements were derived for inpatient, nursing, and treatment areas, reflecting considerations for self- and other-harm prevention, privacy, infection control, and psychological stability. Implications: The proposed guidelines can serve as a foundational reference for improving the quality of therapeutic environments in the future design and renovation of acute psychiatric wards.