Ideal physical features of environmental design in children’s hospital

Abstract

Purpose During hospitalization, children are faced with physical disorders and many psychological challenges. One important factor affecting children is the environmental design of the hospital. The inappropriate design of hospitals may contribute to an increase in fear, anxiety and behavioral disorders. The purpose of this study is to use children’s perspectives to evaluate the importance and impact of effective environmental factors to generate children’s hospital design guidelines. Design/methodology/approach In this study, children’s desired atmosphere during treatment was examined via 16 drawings and 24 interviews from children at a children’s hospital in Iran. Findings The encoding of information extracted environmental components such as window view, color, hobby, playing, decorations, family presence, structure of hospital, presence of nurse, furniture, water features, light and green space. The results indicate that children prefer a hospital environment that provides entertainment facilities while also offering design features such as the presence of light, colorful decorations, the existence of green spaces and conditions suitable for their families to be present. Research limitations/implications Depending on the location and their living conditions, the children’s prioritization can be different in any society. In addition, the data of this research was descriptive; thus, the conclusions must be considered tentative. Originality/value A number of studies focus on the needs of populations in developed countries. This topic has not been investigated in a major way via professionals in non-western countries such as Iran. Thus, the context of this study and present findings can be deemed unique.