Optimizing acoustic comfort in hospital sleeping wards: Parametric simulation of hospital envelope

Abstract

Environmental comfort, particularly acoustic comfort, plays a crucial role in patient satisfaction within healthcare facilities, especially in sleeping wards. This study aims to optimize hospital acoustic performance to meet recommended noise levels. It defines key acoustic parameters and uses computer simulations to develop solutions that minimize the impact of external noise sources. Results indicate that optimizing window placement and type, applying acoustic insulation treatments, and using multi-layered wall materials significantly reduce noise levels. The study emphasizes the importance of integrating acoustic comfort in hospital design to improve overall healthcare quality. It offers practical guidelines for intervention during the design phase of hospitals and provides valuable insights for architects, engineers, and policymakers to create acoustically optimized healthcare environments.