Question: In healthcare settings, what is the association between physical environment and staff wellbeing/patient clinical outcomes?

Answer:

There was some limited evidence, from one high quality systematic review, indicating that music interventions may be effective in reducing patient anxiety in a variety of healthcare settings. The results of an earlier, weaker systematic review suggested that increased sunlight and presence of windows or windows with a natural view may also improve patient outcomes. There was insufficient evidence to draw any conclusions about the effects of workplace environment on the wellbeing of healthcare staff. Further, high quality studies are needed to support the development of guidelines for designing healthcare environments.

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