Hospital Research Project Integrates Circadian Lighting with Functional Lighting, Noise Masking and More

September 24, 2018

A unique solution at a neuro intensive care unit of a hospital in Aarhus, Denmark integrates circadian lighting and functional lighting, noise masking, music intervention, individual info monitors and camera observation. The staff are thrilled with the new initiative.

”We have to develop and document the new knowledge about the stimulating patient environment, and ensure that this knowledge becomes implemented and used to optimize the patient environments of the future,” say Leanne Langhorn and Lone Moeslund. Both work at the neuro intensive care unit as a clinical nursing specialist/ RN, MScn, PhD and intensive care nurse/ coordinator of patient care, respectively.

Light, sound and images

As a start-up for the groundbreaking research project, it was defined that optimally, a stimulating patient environment should

  • reduce commotion and noise
  • optimize the patient’s personal space
  • provide individual stimuli
  • create calm and a sense of security for the patient and next of kin
  • ensure functional light and circadian lighting
  • optimize communication

As part of the project, Chromaviso is developing ergonomic circadian lighting further, while scientists form clinical documentation for ergonomic circadian lighting and the integrated patient environment with light, sound, visual information and monitoring. Chromaviso is a firm with expertise in health promoting lighting solutions.

”We cannot say anything definitive about the documented effect at this time, but we are seeing indications that the patients benefit from the stimulating environment,” says Leanne. ”What is unique about the project is that we an integrated concept with light, sound, visual information and monitoring. This means that we deal with all aspects around the patient. The more the patients understand their surroundings, the more actively they can participate in the early rehabilitation.”

Natural circadian rhythm and improved sleep

The lighting component fulfils the wish for focused light, functional night light, and available daylight. Ergonomic circadian lighting contributes to a natural circadian rhythm for patients as well as staff. The functional night light makes it possible for the staff to disturb the patient as little as possible when doing their work at night. Ergonomic circadian lighting follows the natural rhythm of the sun. It rises in the morning, is the most intensive in the middle of the day, and at night, a specially designed night light with built-in monitoring is turned on.

Ergonomic Circadian Lighting has an immediately noticeable effect on patients as well as staff, and affects the patient’s sleep pattern positively. A patient who gets a good night’s sleep is better rested and thus less confused and consequently ready for early rehabilitation.

Noise reduction and music stimulation

In intensive care rooms, patients are exposed to undesirable sound influence from interior fittings and machines, the other patients, and the staff. The purpose of the sound component of the project is to control the noise impact occurring in connection with emergency situations. This happens through directional sound. Furthermore, music intervention can be used to stimulate the patient. In an emergency situation, it is possible to mask the noise, resulting in less impact on the other patients and their next of kin from what is taking place in the room.

Individual systematic information

An information board is installed on a flexible arm at each bed. The monitor shows who the patient is, where the patient is and what time it is. This makes quick and systematic information possible. Furthermore, you can see the schedule for the day and a general plan for the patient.

It is possible to use the visual component to stimulate the patient, for example with mood pictures and seasonal pictures.

Monitoring as part of an integrated environment

The monitoring provides the most sense of security for patient and next of kin at night. In this way, the staff can observe the patient without disturbing his or her sleep, which is a significant advantage. In emergency situations, when emergency lighting is turned on, the monitoring and the masking noise are automatically activated.

The project is subsidized by The Market Development Fund and has a total budget of DKK 9,6 million. It is a collaboration between Chromaviso, Glostrup Hospital and Aarhus University Hospital. The research related part of the project takes place at the neurosurgical unit at Aarhus University Hospital and the neurological unit at Glostrup Hospital. Both places research the effect of circadian lighting on patients as well as staff.

This article was first published online by Chromaviso, https://chromaviso.com/en/circadian-lighting/cases/intensive-care-unit-aarhus-university-hospital/.

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • LEDucation 2024 – Concluded with Record-Breaking Attendance

    The LEDucation Trade Show and Conference, organized by the Designers Lighting Forum New York, wrapped 2024 with record-breaking attendance, welcoming more than 10,000 registrants from all aspects of the lighting industry. LEDucation celebrated its 18th year in New York City March 19–20 at the New York Hilton Midtown, becoming North America’s largest annual lighting industry… Read More…

  • Part 1: How Many Studies Does it Take to Change a Lightbulb?

    March 18, 2024 How studies in vision inform lighting standards at Night By Noah Sabatier Changing a light bulb in our home is perhaps the most simple task in which we can still credit ourselves for performing household maintenance. The amount of thought such an operation receives rarely extends beyond looking for the most efficient… Read More…


Design

  • Case Study: Windsor Family Credit Union (WFCU) with Salex SW

    Case Study: Windsor Family Credit Union (WFCU) with Salex SW

    February 6, 2024 Since 1940, WFCU Credit Union is a prominent and forward-thinking financial institution based in Windsor and Essex County. For over 80 years, WFCU has been dedicated to serving Ontario residents, community, organizations, small businesses, commercial entities, and public institutions. Their new headquarters in Kitchener was created as they continue to grow their… Read More…

  • Coaticook Suspended Footbridge: An Ever-Changing Luminous Canvas, Painted by Nature

    Coaticook Suspended Footbridge: An Ever-Changing Luminous Canvas, Painted by Nature

    December 5, 2023 At 170 m (554 ft) long and 50 m (160 ft) high, the Coaticook Canyon Bridge at Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook is one of the longest suspension footbridges in North America and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Eastern Townships. For several years, the Parc de la… Read More…


New Products

  • Liteline ORBIT 2″ Gimbal Recessed Fixture

    The ORBIT is a 5 watt 2″ gimbal recessed light fixture for retrofit applications, with 360° rotation and 80° tilt. It is a high-performance, easy to install downlight solution that offers good light output, energy-efficiency and streamlined design. Suitable for wet locations and ideal for vaulted ceiling and soffit installations. BodyDurable aluminum body with 360°… Read More…

  • Acclaim Lighting Introduces All-Weather Terra Drum with Multiple Color Options

    Acclaim Lighting introduces the Terra Drum series, rugged, all-weather inground, drive-over ready rated fixtures designed for recessed façade and tree lighting applications.  Available in 15-, 30- and 60-watt versions, Terra Drums have a drive-over rating of up to 6,000 lbs. (2,721kg). They are offered in 2400K, 2700K, 3000K, 3500K, 4000K, Dynamic White (2700K-6000K), Quad Spectrum… Read More…