Spatial experience of cancer inpatients in the oncology wards: A qualitative study in visual design aspects

PurposeThis paper aims to explore how the visual characteristics of cancer wards' interior spaces can be improved based on the combined visual design themes to help cancer inpatients' spatial experience and relieved state of mind. Accordingly, we present a visual design framework that can be applied in oncology wards.MethodThis study adopts the Ulrich-supportive design theory as a theoretical framework using two main methodological phases: observation of cancer wards and interviews with professional caregivers. The first phase critically explores hospital cancer wards' interactive aesthetical and visual interior characteristics. Next, we adjusted the visual criteria based on the Post Occupation Evaluation (POE) method to develop the interview questions. Interviews were conducted with experienced nurses, oncologists, and a general physician, all from a cancer ward at McGill University Health Center (MUHC) in Montreal, Canada.ResultsWe presented 11 main themes in the categories of color and light, natural/artistic images, way-finding, and visual clutter. To present and justify our visual design framework, these main themes were then classified based on the common goals, resulting in four combined themes: applying simplicity and usability; developing naturality; creating homeyness and respecting patients' agency; and promoting trustworthiness.ConclusionOur findings suggest that—apart from the last theme, promoting trustworthiness, the rest are in line with Ulrich's supportive design theory. Therefore, further research is needed to investigate "promoting trustworthiness" in the context of cancer wards. In addition, each aspect of the visual design framework can offer practical design recommendations for future studies.