Influence of Positive Distractions on Children in Two Clinic Waiting Areas
April 1st, 2011
Dallas, TX, United States
Debajyoti Pati, Upali Nanda
This research examines how positive distractions influence children’s behavior in pediatric waiting areas. Defined as features that evoke positive emotions, capture attention, and block worrisome thoughts contributing to the healthcare experience. While prior studies emphasized overall attractiveness, this study focuses on specific stimuli in the immediate environment.
HERD: Health Environments Research & Design Journal
DOI: 10.1177/193758671100400310
Posted bySarah Pearl
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Abstract/Description
Objective: To examine the influence of positive distraction on
the behavior and activity of children in two clinic waiting areas.
Background: People spend a considerable proportion of time
waiting in hospitals. Studies show that the quality of waiting
environments influences the perception of quality of care and
caregivers, that perception of waiting time is a better indicator
of patient satisfaction than actual waiting time, and that the
waiting environment contributes to the perception of wait time.
In fact, the attractiveness of the physical environment in waiting
areas has been shown to be significantly associated with higher
perceived quality of care, less anxiety, and higher reported
positive interaction with staff. Can positive distractions in waiting areas improve the waiting experience, as indicated by the
behavior and activities of children waiting for treatment?
the behavior and activity of children in two clinic waiting areas.
Background: People spend a considerable proportion of time
waiting in hospitals. Studies show that the quality of waiting
environments influences the perception of quality of care and
caregivers, that perception of waiting time is a better indicator
of patient satisfaction than actual waiting time, and that the
waiting environment contributes to the perception of wait time.
In fact, the attractiveness of the physical environment in waiting
areas has been shown to be significantly associated with higher
perceived quality of care, less anxiety, and higher reported
positive interaction with staff. Can positive distractions in waiting areas improve the waiting experience, as indicated by the
behavior and activities of children waiting for treatment?
