Transforming the examination environment
Based on the extensive research that led to the development of Ambient Experience, we identified four fundamental pillars to guide our clinical environment solutions:
- Physical and Emotional Comfort
- Patient and Staff Contact
- Experience Personalization
- Hospital Flow
Tied together, these pillars provide a strong foundation for approaches to optimize the clinical environment.
 | 1. Physical & Emotional Comfort Using technology and design to promote relaxation and well-being A well thought-out design for a hospital environment can aid in the physical and emotional comfort of patients, family members, and staff. A soothing, uncluttered environment can reduce stress. Techniques which provide positive distraction enhance patient comfort. |
 | 2. Patient & Staff Contact Maximizing contact between patients, family and staff Medical technology can be intimidating and patients can feel isolated during some procedures. For example, lying motionless on a scanning bed while the staff completes preparations for the procedure can cause anxiety. Design strategies that enhance staff-patient contact can reduce feelings of isolation. |
 | 3. Experience Personalization Giving the patient control through customization With Ambient Experience, the patient can be an active participant in the process. The opportunity to personalize the environment provides a sense of control that facilitates confidence and comfort. |
 | 4. Hospital flow Optimizing the environment to facilitate patient flow and staff satisfaction Ambient Experience can help improve hospital flow through a combination of diminished patient stress and an efficiently designed work and storage environment that helps staff be more efficient. |