Patient Perceptions of Landscape and Abstract Art in Inpatient Cardiac Units: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

Purpose: The purpose of this exploratory study was to capture the influence of artwork in the hospital corridors within cardiothoracic inpatients.

Background: This study builds on previous research to determine the preferred types of artwork (landscape vs. abstract) in the hospital setting as well as the influence of the art itself.

Methods: Participants engaged in surveys with predefined single-choice responses and semistructured one-on-one interviews.

Results: Data were obtained from 45 participants, 15 from each of the units (Landscape, Abstract, or Mixed). A higher percentage of participants reported a positive impact on the Landscape Unit; however, the positive responses on the Abstract and Mixed Units were also notable. Eighty-two percent of responses from patients on the Abstract Unit were positive, as were 82% from the Landscape Unit and the Mixed Unit.

Conclusions: Although landscape was preferred, abstract and mixed art also had positive responses and abstract did not have a negative effect. All genres of art have a place in a hospital; however, strategies should be developed that include more education, engagement, and interpretation of the artwork.