The contribution of the physical space in medical space

Abstract: Work is a fundamental activity in people's lives, it makes it possible to enjoy well-being to live in society. However, the development of some types of diseases is being related to the work environment, for example, the Burnout syndrome, a disease that is increasingly being researched, and leads to inability to carry out work activities. It is no different in healthcare environments, as critical and stressful situations often occur, involving interpersonal relationships, different demands and individuals with different degrees of suffering. Thus, it is necessary to evaluate the environmental factors that define the comfort conditions not only for patients, but also for the medical team that works there. Some variables interfere with well-being: thermal, acoustic, visual, light, olfactory and ergonomic comfort, which assume even more significant responsibilities for architectural design in improving the quality of working life. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze how the physical structure influences the well-being of the medical team, and to identify the presence of risk factors in spaces that can compromise their health; identify design measures capable of preventing pathologies. The optimization of the distribution of spaces, the correct choice of colors, the flows and reduced routes and pacifying elements contribute to creating a more harmonious and more humane environment. The post-occupancy evaluation experience in environments shows that the association between the provision of services and the social relations maintained in the place is also closely linked to the built environment. The instruments used in this study were based on the observation of the quality of the place: procedures for post-occupancy evaluation. The results demonstrate that the evaluation of the characteristics of the physical spaces is fundamental: behavioral, technical-constructive aspects, environmental and comfort characteristics. Therefore, the understanding, planning and quality of health building projects with rationalization, adequacy, comfort and humanization, make the architecture of health environments able to contribute to reducing the sources that cause stress also in those who work there.

Keywords: Health. Health building. Architecture. Medical team. Burnout Syndrome

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1003689

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