Staff Perceptions of the Physical Environment of the Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Unit at Montefiore, The University Hospital for Albert Einstein College of Medicine
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Introduction: Healthcare environments are unique in that they serve as both spaces to treat patients and workplace environments for hospital staff. There is a growing body of research studying the effects of hospitals’ physical environmental features on the patient experience, such as lighting, noise, and color. However, less is known about how the physical environment impacts hospital staff, how they perceive the physical features of these environments, and how such perceptions may impact staff outcomes such as workplace satisfaction and performance. Aims: This study sought to evaluate how hospital staff of the pediatric oncology unit at Montefiore perceive their physical working environment, and how these perceptions shape their workplace experience, satisfaction, and performance. Methods: Data were collected through an online survey (N = 35), focus groups with hospital staff members (N = 12), and interviews with architects of the facility redesign (N = 3). Results: Statistical analysis of the online survey results revealed that staff perceive twelve physical environmental features to be significantly more important than they are currently effective in the facility. Furthermore, results of focus group and interview measures revealed greater insight to how the current space compromises various components and responsibilities integral to the workplace, including staff and patient flow, privacy, lighting, and noise. Conclusion: Staff experience is highly influenced by design of the physical environment. It is important to provide staff with a well-designed workplace environment that supports their needs and allows them to carry out their job to the best of their ability.