Physical environmental factors affecting patients' stress in the accident and emergency department

This study is concerned with the physical environment of our Accident and Emergency (A & E) departments, with reference to added stressors that may affect our clients' overall experience of A & E. It will hopefully highlight an awareness of the environment and what we, as nurses, can do to enhance a therapeutic, humanised department that will not only help our clients cope, but in turn will assist the delivery and reception of our care. The functional purpose of our departments are paramount; however, must we totally ignore the aesthetic values of a humanised environment that will have a positive effect on its user groups? Cost is one factor which will probably spring to mind, however heightening awareness will initiate the process of change that will help establish rationales for change. There is not enough input from nurses with regard to environmental studies, or inclusion in the planning of our departments. If more is done then we can achieve even higher standards of care and a more positive thought/memory of A & E.