Patients and their families weigh in on evidence-based hospital design

In 2 landmark publications, the Institute of Medicine reported on significant deficiencies in our current health care system. In response, an area of research examining the role of the physical environment in influencing outcomes for patients and staff gained momentum. The concept of evidence-based design has evolved, and the development of structural guidelines for new hospital construction was instituted by the American Institute of Architects in 2006.

To determine perceptions of patients and their families of evidence-based design features in a new heart center.

Hospitalized patients and their families, most of whom were in intensive care and step-down units, were surveyed and data from the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems were reviewed to determine perceptions of evidence-based design features incorporated into a new heart center and to assess patients' satisfaction with the environment. Results Responses were reviewed and categorized descriptively. Five general environment topics of focus emerged: privacy, space, noise, light, and overall atmosphere. Characteristics perceived as being dissatisfying and satisfying are discussed.

Critical care nurses must be aware of the current need to recognize how much the physical environment influences care delivery and take steps to maximize patients' safety, satisfaction, and quality of care.