Neonatal unit design improves health

Lots of natural light, an innovative layout and a designed-in calmer atmosphere has had positive results in the neonatal ward at the Royal United Hospital in Bath.

Floor-to-ceiling windows and skylights allow plenty of light, and as the health of each baby improves they gradually move to rooms nearer to the ward's exit.

A study has shown babies are sleeping longer, mothers spending more time breastfeeding and nurses spend more time with each of their patients than they did in the old ward.

Graham Satchell reports.