Rigs Pattern:
The nursing unit has been divided into small cubicles for 1,2,4 and 6 beds. The beds are arranged parallel to the longitudinal wall. The pattern was first built in Rigs hospital in Copenhagen and it still bears the name of Rigs pattern. In this pattern there is difficulty in communication between the nurse and the patient. It also reduces visibility and observation of the patient, wards become longer, consequently the nurse has to walk more and increase number of nurses required.
Installing call bells, signal lights, or closed circuit TV can overcome rigs pattern. To reduce the walking distance wards may be designed in T, E, and-Y shape or with double comdor.
Better support space in the 1950s also limited visibility from the nurse station to some patient rooms and elongated nurse travel distances.
Circular:
Circular configurations of the 1970s shortened travel paths for nurses, but limited, the potential for architectural adaptability. It also meant inadequate support space and storage.