The Impact of Environmental Factors on Patient Safety in Hospitals

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the main environmental factors that affect patient safety, assess the impact of these factors on patient safety, investigate how environmental factors influence the improvement of positive treatment experiences for patients, and provide key recommendations for improving environmental factors in hospitals. The descriptive analytical method was used, with a sample consisting of 150 inpatients from hospitals in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. A questionnaire was developed to collect the data. The results revealed that environmental factors such as air quality, noise levels, lighting, and cleanliness have a significant impact on patient safety. Key findings included the importance of proper ventilation and air quality in enhancing patient comfort and respiratory health, the critical role of cleanliness and effective disinfection in preventing infections, and the positive influence of a quiet and well-lit environment on reducing patient stress and improving overall patient safety. Based on the study's findings, several recommendations were formulated, the most important of which were: enhancing ventilation and air conditioning systems in hospitals to ensure air quality and reduce pollutants that may affect patients' health.