Examining the relationship between therapeutic architectural features and wellbeing indicators among paediatric patients in selected hospitals in Kaduna State

Abstract

The hospital environment plays a crucial role in patient wellbeing, particularly among children who are more sensitive to environmental conditions than adults. Beyond medical treatment, architectural features of healthcare facilities have been shown to influence patient comfort, stress levels, and recovery outcomes. This study examined the relationship between therapeutic architectural features and wellbeing outcomes among paediatric patients in four selected hospitals in Kaduna State, Nigeria. The study was guided by specific objectives to assess the presence of therapeutic architectural features and to determine their relationship with paediatric patient wellbeing. A quantitative survey research design was adopted, involving a sample of 422 respondents, comprising paediatric patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and an architectural observation checklist, and analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential techniques, including Pearson correlation analyses. The findings revealed that all six identified therapeutic architectural features—natural lighting, ventilation and airflow, noise control, spatial organisation and bed arrangement, interior finishes and colour, and access to nature—were positively associated with paediatric wellbeing outcomes. Most of these relationships were statistically significant at p < 0.01. Natural lighting and ventilation exhibited the strongest relationships with patient comfort (r = 0.82 and 0.78), stress reduction (r = 0.70 and 0.74), and perceived recovery (r = 0.75 and 0.71). Noise control and access to nature also demonstrated strong associations with stress reduction, while spatial organisation and interior finishes showed moderate but meaningful correlations across all wellbeing indicators. The study demonstrate that therapeutic architectural features are critical determinants of paediatric patient wellbeing and should be treated as integral components of hospital design. Prioritising natural lighting, ventilation, and noise control, alongside flexible spatial layouts and child-friendly interior environments, can significantly enhance comfort, reduce stress, and improve recovery outcomes. The study further underscores the need for regular environmental audits, post-occupancy evaluations, and the systematic integration of evidence-based design principles to improve the quality of paediatric healthcare delivery, particularly in resource constrained settings.