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Abstract

Background: Recovery can be related to several factors within the care environment. Previous research shows that nurses and relatives emphasize the significance of the care environment for patients’ safety, participation, and well-being. Aim: The aim was to describe the significance of the inpatient care environment for patients’ recovery. Method: A literature review was conducted based on ten peer-reviewed scientific articles (2015–2025) with qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method approaches identified in Cinahl Plus and PubMed. The selection was limited to inpatient care and was analyzed stepwise according to Friberg’s model for general literature reviews. Results: The results were organized into three themes: physical, sensory, and psychosocial care environment. Views from windows and single rooms with well-planned spaces promoted patients’ recovery. Crowded areas and unclear signage reduced the experience of well-being. Low noise levels, dimmed lighting, and soothing colors reduced stress and improved sleep quality whereas noise, harsh lighting, and sterile color schemes had the opposite effect. Single rooms increased integrity, sleep quality, and sense of control but needed to be complemented with common spaces to counteract isolation. A supportive psychosocial care environment was characterized by respectful encounters, patients’ participation, and a balance between privacy and social interaction. Conclusion: A supportive care environment requires interaction between physical, sensory, and social factors. Nurses play an important role in identifying barriers and promoting evidence-based improvements that support inpatients’ recovery.

Keywords: general literature review, inpatient care, patient perspective, physical care environment, psychosocial care environment, recovery, sensory care environment