Patients' experience of privacy and dignity. Part 2: An empirical study

In May-June 2006, a self-report questionnaire was completed by 40 inpatients to assess their experience of privacy and dignity in hospital. The questionnaire comprised closed and open questions, where the latter, among other things, required the patient's own narrative. Results indicate that patients view privacy/dignity as crucial. Although the staff and inadequate ward layouts compromise and conspire against patients' privacy and dignity, patients appear to sympathize with how hospitals are run, even if the caring environment fails to provide full privacy. Women have greater concerns, and both genders indicated how their privacy and dignity could be met. Recognizing problems relating to meeting patients' privacy and dignity, the article challenges clinical staff and hospital designers to address the issue, especially as central government initiatives and law demand serious attention to ensuring patients' privacy and dignity. Research is indicated to ascertain hospital designs, preferred care strategies and education to address the problem.