How to Set Up an Exam Room: Practical Guide for Clinics, Hospitals & New Facilities

• If square footage is tight, choose a height-adjustable exam table and wall-mounted diagnostic tools to open up floor area.

2. Workflow & Storage: Supporting Infection Control

Organize the room so every step—from hand hygiene to instrument handling—flows naturally.

Hand Hygiene

Place the sink and touch-free dispensers near the entrance and in the clinician’s natural path.

PPE & Disposal

• Sharps and waste on a dedicated wall, mounted at compliant heights.

Storage Layout:

• Keep high-use disposables (gloves, swabs, drapes) at standing reach.

• Store heavy items in base cabinets .

• Use labeled bins and standardize where items live across rooms.

Clean/Dirty Separation:

Example: Left side for clean supplies, right side for used instruments waiting for reprocessing outside the room. Keep the room organized to prevent cross-contamination.

3. Power & Data: Outlets, Drops & Labeling

Modern exam rooms rely on reliable power and connectivity.

Plan for Now and the Future:

Consider current equipment plus potential additions—powered chairs, vitals monitors, point-of-care devices, or small ultrasound systems.

Recommended Layout:

• Multiple duplex outlets at the head and one side of the exam table.

• Data drops near the clinician workstation (wired connections improve reliability).

• Ceiling or upper-wall drops only when required for specific devices.

Safety Considerations:

• GFCI protection may be required near sinks.

• Patient-care areas follow NEC Article 517, which includes exceptions—confirm with your electrician and AHJ.

• Label every receptacle with the circuit and panel for easy troubleshooting.

4. Plumbing & Sink Placement

Handwashing is central to patient safety—and accessibility requirements apply.

Best Practices:

• Use a hands-free faucet.

• Include splash protection behind and around the sink.

• For accessible lavatories, follow ADA knee and toe clearances and provide a 30″ × 48″ clear floor space in front.

Proper sink placement reduces workflow interruptions and improves infection control.

5. ADA Accessibility: Doors, Clearances & Transfers

Accessibility is not optional—it’s essential for safe patient handling and efficient care.

Core ADA Considerations:

• Doorways: Minimum 32″ clear opening when the door is open at 90°.

• Turning Space: A 60″ diameter circle or a compliant T-turn where required.

• Clear Floor Space: Provide 30″ × 48″ clear positioning space for mobility devices.

• Exam Table Access: Plan adequate lateral transfer space next to the exam table.

• Lavatory Access: Provide compliant knee/toe clearances beneath accessible sinks.

Choosing a low-height, accessible exam table reduces staff lift injuries and increases patient independence.

6. Lighting, Acoustics & Finishes

These details influence comfort, privacy, and efficiency.

Lighting

Blend even ambient lighting with focused task lighting near the head of the exam table.

Acoustics

Consider door sweeps, gasketing, and sound-absorbing materials (where allowed) to protect patient privacy.

Finishes

• Smooth, cleanable surfaces.

• Seamless flooring with coved bases.

• Avoid materials that trap dust or moisture.

7. Starter Equipment Checklist

A basic, functional exam room should include:

• Height-adjustable Exam table or procedure chair

• Adjustable clinician stool

• Diagnostic wall set (otoscope, ophthalmoscope, thermometer, BP)

• Task/exam light

• Handwashing sink (hands-free faucet; soap/towel dispensers)

• PPE station

• Sharps and regulated waste containers

• Scale (wheelchair or bariatric model as needed)

• Storage cabinets with labeled bins

• Mobile instrument cart or trays

• Computer or mobile workstation; data drops; label printer

• Emergency items (per facility policy), such as a spill kit ora crash cart, access

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much space do I need for an exam room?

Requirements vary, but most rooms require sufficient space for circulation, equipment, and ADA access—plan for door clearance, wheelchair positioning, and turning space as required. Discuss specific dimensions with your architect and AHJ.

2. Where should electrical outlets go?

Place multiple outlets at the head and one side of the exam table, plus near the clinician's workstation. Include data drops and consider future devices. GFCI may be required near sinks—verify with your electrician.

3. How do I make sure my exam room is ADA-compliant?

Provide a 32″ clear door opening, 30″ × 48″ clear floor spaces, and a turning room where needed. Follow ADA guidance for sink knee/toe clearance and exam table transfer access.

4. What is the best location for the sink?

Near the entrance and within easy reach of the clinician workflow. Use hands-free fixtures and splash protection, and ensure ADA clearances if the sink must be accessible.

5. How can I improve storage in a small exam room?

Use wall-mounted diagnostic tools, labeled bins, and cabinets at standing reach for high-use items. Separate clean and dirty processes, and avoid keeping unnecessary supplies in the room.