Tariq Mahmood

Abstract

Objective: To explore patient’s perceptions regarding the physical environment of an Emergency Assessment Unit (EAU).

Design/Setting: Questionnaire study at the time of discharge from the EAU of a UK District General Hospital

Participants: All patients who were admitted through the EAU for three consecutive days.

Results: Availability of modern facilities, close proximity to home and cleanliness were considered important parameters by <75% of patients. More than half of the patients considered presence of quiet space, good ward aesthetics and hospital food, provision of telephone and television facility, good ward security and ample hospital parking to be important aspects of an EAU. Conclusions: Patient views should form a key part of design when considering the physical environment of an EAU.