Restorative environments and humanized practice in oncology services

This article critically examines how environmental psychology informs the design of restorative environments that foster humanized care among health professionals who treat people with cancer. It is a reflective, qualitative, exploratory study grounded in a critical analysis of the scientific literature. Articles, books, and theses on environmental psychology, work, restorative environments, and the humanization of oncology care were identified and selected using terms drawn from the Health Sciences Descriptors. The analysis was guided by Attention Restoration Theory and Stress Reduction Theory, which together frame the role of environmental psychology in physical and psychological well-being. The reflections indicate that, given the dynamic interplay between workers and their surroundings, the care environment (ambiência) plays a central role in promoting well-being and mental health among oncology professionals. Examining these interrelations shows how the care environment can mitigate stress, support mental health, and reduce physical and mental fatigue. For health professionals, appropriate environments are decisive for improving work quality and preventing emotional strain arising from protocol-driven, high-intensity routines. Further studies are warranted to deepen understanding of the relationships among workers, the care environment, and mental health, with the aim of advancing more effective and compassionate oncology care. In this context, environmental psychology provides a pertinent theoretical and practical framework for rethinking and improving the hospital care environment.