Cove
Cove represents a new generation of chemotherapy infusion chair by Tactile, designed to provide unparalleled comfort and support for patients undergoing treatment. With customizable features such as privacy panels, adjustable lighting, temperature control, and reclining options, Cove offers a personalized experience to meet the unique needs of each patient.
Additionally, Cove includes a companion seat model, allowing a support person to sit comfortably alongside the patient during treatment sessions. Inspired by personal experiences with loved ones undergoing chemotherapy, Tactile’s diverse team of designers collaborated to redefine treatment chairs. Drawing from the aesthetics of upscale home furnishings and premium airplane cabins, Cove sets a new standard for comfort and style in medical seating.
Cutting-Edge Design Features
Through comprehensive research, including stakeholder interviews, concept development, and iterative feedback, Tactile identified key design opportunities. Existing treatment chairs, designed for various healthcare settings, fail to address the specific needs of chemotherapy patients. Patients expressed a desire for more control over their environment. In response, Tactile developed a suite of innovative features for Cove, including:
- Rotating privacy panels
- Swiveling work surface
- Adjustable reading and task lights
- Temperature control (heating and cooling)
- Personal storage
- Charging ports for personal devices
- Independently reclining head and footrests
Cove is designed not only for patients but also with oncology nurses in mind. It features a button interface on the rear of the left armrest for nurse-specific functions, such as locking/unlocking casters, emergency recline for CPR, and adjusting the chair’s height. Additionally, the chair includes a release hatch on the rear of the right armrest and hinged privacy panels, allowing nurses full access to the patient when needed.
Sanitization and ease of cleaning were also top priorities. The cushions and high-touch areas are designed to be easily wipeable, with materials chosen for their durability and resistance to liquids, including leather-grained medical-grade silicone and liquid-resistant woven fabric.
Enhancing the Experience for Support Persons
Acknowledging the often-overlooked role of the support person, Cove includes features aimed at enhancing their comfort and engagement. These features bring the patient and support person together, fostering a supportive environment. Key elements include:
- An integrated seat next to the patient
- Shared work surface
- Temperature control (heating and cooling)
- Personal storage
- Charging ports for personal devices
- Adjustable footrest
Aesthetically Elevated Design
Tactile challenged the clinical aesthetic of traditional treatment chairs, responding to patient feedback that called for a more inviting experience. Inspired by consumer markets such as home furnishings and first-class air cabins, Cove combines functionality with a touch of luxury.
The chair’s elevated stance and sophisticated design elements, such as privacy panels with integrated reading lights and a refined work surface lamp, evoke a sense of high-end travel and hospitality. The chair’s wrapping head and armrests provide a feeling of being embraced, while the use of natural cool tones paired with light wood finishes creates a calming environment. High-contact areas feature soft, medical-grade silicone, and the headrest is adorned with woven fabric, striking a balance between professionalism and approachability.
Benefits for Patients, Nurses, and Society
Cove is thoughtfully designed with consideration for social, cultural, and environmental factors, recognizing the diverse needs of chemotherapy patients, their support persons, and oncology nurses. By incorporating ergonomic principles, intuitive interfaces, and consistent visual elements, Cove ensures accessibility and ease of use for all users, reducing cognitive and physical strain and making the chemotherapy experience more manageable.
Committed to sustainability and hygiene, Cove chairs are made from durable materials that withstand frequent cleaning, minimizing the need for replacements. Cove sets a new benchmark for medical seating, prioritizing patient comfort and environmental responsibility.
All Images & Video Courtesy of TACTILE Shared with Permission
Website: https://tactileinc.com/
