Hospital pre-admission orientation and patient satisfaction

The literature reflects the importance of communication and information in patient satisfaction with health related services. The present study examines the effect of a physician-delivered orientation on patient satisfaction for a hospital stay of three days or less. A comparative study design was utilized. Patient satisfaction was increased when an orientation was provided prior to the hospital admission. The study found that when patients were provided an orientation, satisfaction with services improved, as did the perception of the physician's professionalism.