Investigation of existing light levels and color choices in pediatric hospitals in the United States

Abstract

There are many published studies which have examined built environments in hospitals and other medical facilities with regards to physical outcomes and perceived satisfaction in adult patients, but research pertaining to the built environment and pediatric facilities is sparse. Via empirical field examination of existing conditions in three pediatric units of hospitals in the United States, researchers compared and contrasted current electric lighting levels for visual tasks (i.e., medical examination, reading, and administering medication) with those recommended by the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES). A total of thirty nine (N=39) measurements were taken. Only four (n=4, 10.27%) measurement complied within ten percent of IES standards. Analysis of the outcomes revealed that the existing lighting was inadequate in all areas of the various pediatric units. "Evidence-based design (EBD) is the process of basing decisions about the built environment on credible research to achieve the best possible outcomes" (Malone, p. 83).