Work

Investigating the Impact of Window Features and Room Layout on Anxiety, Depression, and Analgesic Medication Intake Among Patients: A Pilot Study in a Cardiac Intensive Care Unit

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Objectives This observational, pilot study investigated the impact of room layout (orientation of patient bed toward windows) and window features (blind positions) on patients’ perceived anxiety and depression levels as well as analgesic medication intake in a cardiac intensive care unit (CICU). Background While room layout and window features in patient rooms can impact the effectiveness of windows, there is a paucity of research on how these features can alleviate coexisting symptoms of anxiety, depression, and pain among hospitalized CICU patients with heart disease. Methodology Blind positions, light, and temperature levels were recorded hourly in south-facing, windowed patient rooms of the same size with parallel or perpendicular patient bed placement to the window in a CICU. Anxiety scores, depression scores, and analgesic medication intake (mg) were obtained daily for 11 patients (22 observation days). Generalized linear models were employed to investigate the relationships between variables. Results Blind positions (open, semiopen, closed) varied throughout patients’ CICU stay across the rooms. Linear models indicated that patients in rooms with predominantly open blinds (hourly frequency ≥ 50% per day) had significantly lower average anxiety ( p = .004) and depression scores ( p = .015), as well as reduced analgesic medication intake ( p < .001) compared to those in rooms with closed blinds. The study found no significant relationships between different room layouts and the measured outcomes. Conclusion Findings underscore the importance of considering environmental factors, such as window features and room layout in CICUs, as nonmedical interventions to enhance patient health during hospitalization.

Source: HERD Health Environments Research & Design Journal

DOI: 10.1177/19375867251314518

Author: Roxana Jafarifiroozabadi

Institution: Texas A&M University

Language: English

Topic: Family and Patient Care in Intensive Care Units

Subfield: Radiological and Ultrasound Technology

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: Clemson University