Background: The healthcare environment is where care is delivered and involves creating a
favorable environment adjusted for the unique needs, preferences, and resources, of each
patient. It is essential to establish a welcoming healthcare environment that supports patient
recovery. Recovery involves experiencing harmony between activity and rest, a sense of
acceptance, and the ability to pause an ongoing activity and facilitate recovery. Aim: the aim
is to create an overview of the significance of the healthcare environment for patients'
recovery. Method: A general literature review analyzed seven qualitative, three mixed-
methods, and one quantitative article. Results: The healthcare environment impacts patient
recovery both positively and negatively. Four categories were identified: "The importance of
the physical healthcare environment", “the importance of involvement”
,
“the significance of
sleep”, and “the importance of interactions". The design of patient rooms, access to large
windows, and natural views positively influence recovery. Single rooms enable rest and
improved sleep quality. Noise and unpleasant sounds disrupt sleep, which resulted in
delaying recovery, while some patients find solace in soothing background noise.
Involvement in care, informative staff, and continuity of care providers promote recovery.
Interaction with others fosters camaraderie and support, further enhancing recovery.
Conclusion: A calm healthcare environment that provides privacy promotes patient
recovery. Involvement, adequate information, and social interaction facilitate a sense of
security and ease recovery.
Keywords: Healthcare environment, General literature review, Patient experience,
Recovery.