The purpose of this paper presentation is to address the challenges of providing safe, efficient patient care during construction and remodeling of a maternal child unit.  Frequently identified challenges include lack of communication of day to day construction plans from facilities management and construction crews to the bedside nurse, lack of timely notification of inaccessible patient care areas and alternate routes, patient dissatisfaction, associated with construction noise and potential displacement of patients due to limited bed space outside construction areas.  Additional factors that must be considered include accommodations in temporary patient care areas, including emergency response equipment, access to appropriate documentation processes, infection control, and safety and security of the mother, baby, visitors and staff. 

Proposed change:

To improve the process of patient care delivery amidst construction, we share lessons learned in one facility that endured major construction in the maternal child care area. 

Implementation, outcomes and evaluation: Improved nursing efficency and safe patient handeling during construction projects

Implications for nursing practice:

 By preparing nurses to consider these challenges, we hope that many facilities will be prepared and able to provide safe, efficient quality patient care with minimal disruption during  the construction process.  

Keywords: Construction, Remodeling, safety