To provide an environment that promotes relaxation, it is important to understand what’s going on in the minds of patients during uptake. A joint study of the Netherlands Cancer Institute and Philips Research Laboratories showed that the majority of patients could not relax for the duration of the uptake procedure and would become restless after 15 to 20 minutes.
To mitigate this stress, Philips did extensive research to optimize the visual themes available. A visual stimulus that engages and distracts patients is critical. Philips Ambient Experience for the uptake room offers a flowing, soothing visual journey without end. To prevent overstimulation, the video display size is kept modest. Initially, only a preview image is offered. After 20 minutes, to keep the mind engaged, the audiovisual theme is gradually introduced. Patients appreciate that they are given a choice of themes – it provides a sense of control over the experience for those who want that.
“My experience of the Ambient room is very positive. The largest benefit for me as a doctor is that the patient is very relaxed and that I have very good lighting of the arm of the patient when I want to do the FDG injection,” says Wouter Vogel, Nuclear Medicine Physician at the Netherlands Cancer Institute.
Ambient Experience gives patients an opportunity to manage their stress and puts clinicians in control by improving procedural efficiency and patient compliance. It conveys an attitude of well-being with a focus on patient satisfaction that could become a differentiating factor for your hospital or cancer center.
Read more about the Philips Ambient Experience uptake room solution here.
