Effect of False Windows on Light Exposure and Sleep Quality in Hospitalized Patients

Abstract

Purpose: We aimed to investigate the effects of installing false windows next to hospital beds without windows on the amount of light received by patients and their sleep quality. Methods: The study included patients admitted to the Department of Neurology at our hospital between September 2020 and August 2021. An Actigraph device was fitted to patients' wrist and their beds to measure the amount of light received and sleep quality. Patients were divided into three groups: bed with a window, aisle bed with a false window, and aisle bed without a window. Mean sleep efficiency (%), mean steps (per day), and the amount of light (lux) received by the patients and beds were measured. Results: Valid data were obtained for 48 participants (median age, 66.5 years). There were 23 patients in beds with a window, 13 patients in aisle beds without a false window, and 12 in aisle beds with a false window. No statistically significant differences were found in terms of mean sleep efficiency, number of steps taken, and the amount of light received by the patients (P > 0.05); however, difference in the mean amount of light received by the beds at the location of the bed was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The amount of light that the patient receives is not necessarily affected by the location of the bed or the presence of a false window.