BIBLIOMETRIC REVIEW
PINTO, Isabella Caroline Carvalho [1], RIGHETTO, Adriana Volpon Diogo [2], LIMA, Mariana Zuliani Theodoro de [3]
PINTO, Isabella Caroline Carvalho; RIGHETTO, Adriana Volpon Diogo; LIMA, Mariana Zuliani Theodoro de. Acoustic comfort and humanization in maternity wards: architectural and environmental considerations. Revista Científica Multidisciplinar Núcleo do Conhecimento. Year. 11, Ed. 01, Vol. 02, pp. 05-35. January of 2026. ISSN: 2448-0959. Available at: https://www.nucleodoconhecimento.com.br/architecture/humanization-in-maternity, DOI: 10.32749/nucleodoconhecimento.com.br/architecture/humanization-in-maternity
Civil construction is in constant search of integrating more sustainable options into the construction process so that the outcome causes minimal environmental impact while maximizing comfort for users of the new building. Applying this concept to healthcare facilities, it is evident that these environments require greater attention regarding comfort levels. Studies indicate that a humanized and acoustically comfortable environment aids in patient recovery and makes the hospitalization period more pleasant for healthcare professionals and those undergoing treatment. Therefore, it is necessary to interpret hospital infrastructure as a healing agent. This study analyzed some design variables to enhance acoustic quality through sustainable solutions that contribute to hospital humanization without compromising the necessary sterilization in such facilities. The topic was debated among three groups: mothers, healthcare professionals, and construction sector professionals specialized in hospital projects and acoustic treatment. They identified the feasibility of using coconut fiber in the absorbing layer of drywall partitions, provided that further studies are conducted on its performance and cost-effectiveness and that major companies in the industry adopt this material to gain market reliability. The use of bamboo slat cladding (a sustainable alternative to wood) in ceilings and walls of social areas was highlighted as effective in improving the acoustic quality of these spaces, as well as the use of vegetation in circulation areas.
Keywords: Noise, Acoustic Comfort, Hospital Humanization.
The word “hospital” has the same Latin origin as “hospes”, whose etymological root is the same as “hospedaria”, characterizing a shelter environment for individuals who are away from their own homes. From this, the term “Hospitality” emerged, derived from “Hospitalitate”, to designate a warm reception for those received in another’s property (inns) (1). For a long period, this concept was applied only in the hospitality industry, aiming to provide the best experience for customers throughout their stay. However, a hospital is also a service-providing institution whose visitors face conditions of physical debility, emotional, and psychological fragility, which increases the importance of providing them with the best possible care. Given the linguistic correlation between “Hospital” and “Hospitality,” it is essential that both concepts align with the daily experiences of users in this environment (2).
The emergence of the Hospital Humanization concept, which describes patient recovery as being directly affected by comfort levels concerning all variables in the healing process, has driven efforts to improve the receptivity of hospital environments. This has reshaped the perception of the relationship between healthcare professionals and patients (3).
The primary characteristic of a humanized hospital is to value and respect people within its physical, technological, human, and administrative structure (4). From this perspective, proper hospital planning and construction have become fundamental concerns to provide optimal lighting, thermal, and acoustic comfort, which can enhance patient recovery and improve the experience of healthcare professionals and companions (5).
Maternity wards are sections where comfort standards must be carefully considered since newborns are still in the process of adaptation and development while relying on the mother’s physical and emotional recovery. The acoustic quality of environments accommodating mothers and their babies is crucial for their rehabilitation and adaptation (6).
Hospital construction follows specific performance standards to meet the necessary care requirements of these facilities. The current challenge for engineers and architects is to link indoor comfort with sustainable and energy-efficient building performance (7). The objective of this study is to present sustainable approaches to acoustic treatment by evaluating new material possibilities and design solutions tailored to hospital needs. The research considered the perspectives of mothers and healthcare professionals regarding the most common noise types in each setting and the essential sterilization requirements in hospitals. The feasibility of coconut fiber as an absorbing component in acoustic blankets for ceilings and floors was presented to industry professionals, who identified it as an innovative material but recommended further testing. The study also proposed using bamboo slatted ceilings in social areas—identified as the noisiest spaces—to humanize the environment and reduce noise impacts. This solution was validated by construction professionals, citing its successful application at Santa Thereza Hospital in Campinas Research Ethics Committee (number: 90921825.6.0000.0084).
Sustainability was understood as the link and central point of correlation between Comfort and Hospital Humanization. According to Florence Nightingale, the English nurse considered the mother of modern nursing for pioneering studies on humanization, a balanced, clean, and pleasant environment could prevent the patient from expending excessive energy in adapting to the location and reduce stress, thereby optimizing recovery time (8). This can be interpreted as an increase in the sustainability of the healing process, based on the assumption that “sustainable” derives from the Latin sustentare (to sustain; to defend; to favor, to support; to conserve, to care for) (9). It would therefore be contradictory if the means used to make hospital facilities an agent of healing by promoting patient comfort and optimizing rehabilitation were also not designed sustainably.
The construction sector is responsible for the largest share of waste production, with Brazil being unable to recycle even 5% of all waste generated. Organic waste disposal often serves as a breeding ground for venomous animals or is burned, causing materials with potential as raw materials to become pollutants due to improper disposal (10). From the need to repurpose coconut husks, it was discovered that this plant fiber has good acoustic performance (11).
The combination of coconut fiber with expanded cork is an attractive proposal for acoustic blankets due to its cost-effectiveness and sustainability. Its composition contains a high amount of lignin, which provides rigidity capable of absorbing low frequencies. In construction, panels filled with coconut fiber are used in flooring, ceilings, and walls, with various densities and thicknesses to mitigate noise, classified as non-harmonious or indistinct sounds, which are the main cause of compromised acoustic comfort. In general contexts, such noises can hinder cognitive ability, interfere with communication, cause loss of attention, irritability, and result in headaches (12; 13).
Acoustics is the branch of physics that studies sound, its properties, and behavior. Sound is a mechanical wave (which requires a material medium to propagate) and longitudinal (its vibration occurs in the same direction as propagation), with three-dimensional dispersion.
It is estimated that the speed of sound propagating through the air at 20°C under atmospheric pressure of 1 atm is 340 m/s. This speed increases if refraction occurs in a liquid medium and becomes even higher when propagation occurs in a solid medium.
One of the fundamental properties of sound for this study is frequency (the number of oscillations in a given time interval), measured in Hertz (Hz). Low-frequency sounds are perceived as deep or bass sounds, while high-frequency sounds are perceived as sharp or treble sounds.
The volume of sound refers to the amount of energy carried by the wave and is expressed as Sound Intensity, which is graphically represented (in a two-dimensional plane) by the wave amplitude—the distance from a crest or trough to the resting point.
Sound Intensity Calculation
The sound intensity value is given by the expression:
where
The relationship with area expresses the concept of Sound Intensity Concentration, demonstrating that the distance between the sound emitter and the receiver affects the perceived volume.
When the sound source moves away, the sound propagates three-dimensionally, distributing across a larger area while maintaining the same original power. This decreases the sound intensity (volume), as these quantities are inversely proportional (18).
The Sound Intensity Level expresses the actual value of sound intensity as perceived by the human ear. It has been found that the auditory canals reduce sound intensity according to the following equation:
where:
Thus, the biological interpretation of sound leads to an exponential reduction in perceived sound intensity (19).
For an acoustic study of an environment to be effective, the calculation of the acoustic field must consider the consequences of sound incidence on a surface, quantifying the absorbed, reflected, and transmitted sound energy. Absorption is the process in which sound is attenuated due to energy loss by particle friction, as the sound wave propagates through the absorbing material. During this process, the energy is converted into heat in an irreversible reaction, reducing the intensity of the incident sound wave. The materials recommended for acoustic absorption are classified according to the frequency range they best absorb. High-frequency sounds (sharp sounds) can be treated with fibrous and porous materials, as they dissipate energy through friction in the cavities of the material (20).
Low frequencies are the most challenging to treat. Resonant Membranes are commonly used for mid- and low-frequency treatment. These membranes consist of thin panels, typically made of wood or metal, mounted on spacers on walls or ceilings, with an air layer inside. When sound hits the surface, it excites the outer membrane, and the internal air layer acts as a spring, facilitating the absorption of mid- to low-frequency sounds through the porous material installed inside the cavity. Another alternative for low-frequency absorption is resonators, which work similarly to membranes. These devices have a single opening surrounded by rigid walls, which dampens sound waves as they enter the narrow passage and are trapped in the cavity (21).
Sound reflection is crucial in acoustic field calculations, as it is necessary to quantify the absorbed and reflected sound energy. The angle of sound incidence on a surface is always equal to the angle of reflection. This phenomenon is most evident on a smooth (specular) surface. However, when the surface is rough or irregular, like sandpaper or frosted glass, the reflection is diffuse, causing the waves to scatter in different directions due to the variation in the normal angle along the uneven surface. The most common reflective materials include ceramic coatings, plaster, and certain types of wood. Sound reflection can enhance the acoustic quality of an environment, as strategic surface inclinations can direct sound propagation. This principle is widely utilized in auditoriums, theaters, and concert halls, such as the Sala São Paulo (20). The acoustic influence of a building must consider noise transmitted from the external environment to the interior as well as noise generated within the space itself. In the first case, the variables that compose the surroundings of the plot, such as traffic, vegetation, architecture, the arrangement of neighboring buildings, and climate, must be assessed in their various ways of interacting with sound waves to minimize the transfer of unwanted sounds from outside to inside (14; 15). In the second case, it is important to highlight that healthcare buildings face the paradoxical situation of requiring minimal noise to meet the WHO (World Health Organization) standards, which recommend 30 to 40 dB in indoor environments, while simultaneously having technological monitoring equipment with beeps and alarms. Furthermore, privacy criteria vary for each hospital sector, leading to different recommended sound intensity levels. For example, values range from 35 to 45 dB in wards, nurseries, and surgical centers, 40 to 50 dB in laboratories and public-use areas, and 45 to 55 dB in service areas, according to NBR 10151 (16).
Planning acoustic design can improve patient comfort, privacy, and dignity, assist in establishing sleep patterns—which are essential for the healing process—and aid healthcare professionals in maintaining accuracy and concentration. It also prevents excessive noise from increasing blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration, as well as contributing to cognitive impairment and sleep disorders (13).
The Australian document Australasian Health Facility Revision v 4.0 is a detailed literature review focused on identifying areas in healthcare environments that require noise control and acoustic privacy. Mapping the necessary concerns for good acoustic performance covers everything from building design analysis to infection control, evaluating the practicality of cleaning the materials used (13).
The architecture proposed for the design of Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas International Airport provided a new perspective for research. Its roof has a linear structure made of bamboo slats (a more natural and sustainable alternative to wood), installed in a wave-like pattern, with curved features inspired by the silhouette of a bird in flight. These are supported by the perimeter facade through tensioned cable trusses and by central Y-shaped structures at the ends of each module. Its composition also includes high-performance glass panels fixed between the trusses through horizontal aluminum fins. According to the designers, the roof emerged as the defining architectural element for the identity of the project. Its implementation significantly reduced energy consumption by allowing natural lighting to enter various areas of the airport (17).
Figure 01 – Ceiling of Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas International Airport
The roof configuration contributed to acoustic treatment according to Sandy Brown, a UK-based acoustic consultancy firm responsible for the acoustic design of the new building at Terminal 4 of Madrid-Barajas International Airport. The most important considerations in meeting the required performance levels according to the building’s operational activities included the sound insulation of the façade, reverberation control within the terminal building, voice communication and evacuation systems, and lastly, building services for noise and vibration control. The system needed to manage the entry of both high and low-frequency sounds, improve voice evacuation conditions, and reduce reverberation times in public areas. The roof design played a crucial role in achieving these goals, along with the use of perforated metal and sound-absorbing mineral fiber to capture internal sound, as well as strategically placed sound-absorbing finishes on walls and soffits (17).
This study focused on four main aspects: conducting a descriptive research on the basic principles of acoustic physics to propose more accurate solutions to noise issues in hospital environments; developing three interview scripts to understand the weaknesses in hospital acoustic comfort from the perspectives of mothers, healthcare professionals, and construction professionals; visiting maternity facilities, PPP rooms (pre-labor, labor, and postpartum), and the Neonatal ICU at Vera Cruz Hospital in Campinas to observe user experiences and analyze factors that contribute to more efficient and humanized care, as well as aspects that need improvement; and investigating viable and sustainable ways to implement acoustic treatment in healthcare facilities based on interview results.
For this purpose, research was conducted on the different ways sound propagates, the acoustic characteristics that influence the type of acoustic treatment required, and how to use reflection and absorption phenomena according to the acoustic needs of hospital environments.
Following this process, three questionnaires were developed and applied to their respective audiences (Research Ethics Committee 90921825.6.0000.0084). The interview with mothers, conducted in March 2020 with seventeen questions, aimed to identify the main complaints regarding noise during hospitalization. Ten of the questions were closed-ended, while seven were open-ended to allow for individualized experiences.
The interview for healthcare professionals was conducted in November 2019 and contained fourteen questions, eight of which were open-ended and five closed-questions, to analyze the impact of noise on employees’ daily work, as well as to identify the most acoustically uncomfortable locations and internal measures adopted to minimize unwanted noise. The target audience included doctors, biomedical professionals, ICU directors, nurses, and clinical analysts from hospitals in São Paulo and Curitiba.
The interview with hospital construction professionals took place during an internship at the Arkisantè Architecture office. This stage clarified which environments require better acoustic performance, how the layout and design of a project should be planned to prevent noise propagation, and how vegetation and the building’s front can be used to mitigate sound transmission within internal spaces.
On November 2, 2019, a visit was made to Vera Cruz Hospital in Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil. The findings confirmed what had been identified in the literature review regarding the main sources of noise and validated the importance of environmental design planning to ensure privacy and comfort.
In the final stage, the company Acalve Engenharia, specializing in drywall systems for acoustic treatment, was consulted through engineer Gustavo Pinheiro regarding the feasibility of using sustainable materials for the absorptive layer of acoustic panels and the challenges these materials face in the market.
1. Age:
( ) Under 18 years
( ) 18 to 25 years
( ) 26 to 33 years
( ) 34 to 40 years
( ) Over 40 years
2. Hospital where you were admitted: ___________________________________
3. Is this your first pregnancy? ( ) Yes ( ) No
4. Did you feel any fear during hospitalization?
( ) Few
( ) Moderate
( ) Many
5. Try to describe how you felt about the fears listed above.___________________________________
6. Did the environment make you feel welcomed?___________________________________
7. Did you have any issues with noise during your hospital stay?
( ) I did not hear any disturbing noise.
( ) At some moments.
( ) Frequently.
8. What were these noises?
( ) Crying
( ) Traffic sounds
( ) Internal conversations
( ) Could not identify
( ) Other: ______________________________________________________
9. What or who generated these noises? ______________________________________________________
10. At what times of the day were they most frequent?
( ) Mornings
( ) Lunch hour
( ) Early afternoon
( ) Late afternoon
( ) Night
( ) Dawn
11. Which areas were the noisiest?
( ) Emergency Room
( ) Oncology
( ) Pre-labor Room
( ) Pediatric Oncology
( ) Reception
( ) Neonatal ICU
( ) Patient Room
( ) Other: ______________________________________________________
12. On a scale from 0 to 10, how much did they bother you?
(0) ⬜⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ (10)
Little (0) → Very much (10)
13. What did these sounds make you feel?
⬜ They caused fear
⬜ They generated stress
⬜ They increased heart rate
⬜ They disrupted sleep
⬜ They relieved pain
⬜ Others: _____________________________________________________
14. Did you notice that these sounds influenced your comfort and your baby’s comfort? If so, how?
(Open-ended question with space for response)
15. Do you consider that the environments in which you were accommodated ensured your privacy and comfort? Why?
(Open-ended question with space for response)
16. What is your expectation for a panel that minimizes noise inside the hospital environment?
⬜ It is not necessary.
⬜ I am indifferent.
⬜ It would be very useful.
1) Workplace Institution: ________________________________________________
2) On a scale from 0 to 10, how would you rate the maternity environment?
Comfortable (0) ⬜ ⬜⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ (10) Noisy
3) Which areas were the noisiest?
⬜ Emergency Room
⬜ Pre-labor Room
⬜ Reception
⬜ Patient Room
⬜ Oncology
⬜ Pediatric Oncology
⬜ Neonatal ICU
⬜ Others: __________________________________________________________
4) Which areas had the best acoustic isolation?
⬜ Emergency Room
⬜ Pre-labor Room
⬜ Reception
⬜ Patient Room
⬜ Oncology
⬜ Pediatric Oncology
⬜ Neonatal ICU
⬜ Others: __________________________________________________________
5) Is there any internal policy to reduce conversation noise among professionals in the corridors?
⬜ Yes
⬜ No
6) If yes, what internal policy? ___________________________________________
7) Do you believe that the noises to which you are exposed daily can, in some way, compromise your concentration at certain moments?
⬜ Yes
⬜ No
Why? ______________________________________________________________
8) How should the effects of unavoidable noises in a maternity environment be minimized, such as baby cries and labor pains? ______________________________________________________________
9) How much do you believe a comfortable acoustic environment can help the birthing process and the mother’s recovery?
No influence (0) ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ ⬜ (10) Extremely relevant
10) Do you believe that the hospital facility is well designed to prevent the spread of undesirable noises inside the hospital?
⬜ Yes
⬜ No
⬜ It could be improved in some aspects
11) Would you like a panel that minimizes noise inside the hospital environment?
⬜ It is not necessary.
⬜ I am indifferent.
⬜ It would be very useful.
1) Company to which you are linked: ______________________________________
2) Job position: _______________________________________________________
3) Which internal hospital environments require higher acoustic performance?
⬜ Emergency Room
⬜ Pre-labor Room
⬜ Reception
⬜ Patient Room
⬜ Surgical Center
⬜ Pediatric Oncology
⬜ Neonatal ICU
⬜ Others: __________________________________________________________
4) Which environments could be acoustically isolated?
⬜ Emergency Room
⬜ Pre-labor Room
⬜ Reception
⬜ Patient Room
⬜ Surgical Center
⬜ Pediatric Oncology
⬜ Neonatal ICU
⬜ Others: __________________________________________________________
5) Does the hospital’s master plan include acoustic isolation considerations in the design of buildings?
⬜ Yes
⬜ No
6) If yes, how is it planned? _____________________________________________
7) How do you minimize noise effects during a renovation? Are noise mitigation strategies included in project planning? ______________________________________________________
8) Does hospital façade design contribute to better acoustic barriers?
⬜ Yes
⬜ No
9) What materials are used in areas requiring higher acoustic performance within the hospital?______________________________________________________________
10) Would the installation of a noise-reducing panel, made from a sustainable material, contribute to improving hospital humanization?
⬜ Yes
⬜ No
Why? ______________________________________________________________
11) If your answer to the previous question was yes, which hospital areas would be most suitable for installing this panel, aiming to minimize the spread of unwanted noise in internal environments?______________________________________________________________
On November 2, 2019, a visit to the Neonatal ICU at Vera Cruz Hospital in Campinas was conducted along with the advisor of this study and Prof. Dr. José Romanello. Dr. Abimael Aranha, the ICU Coordinator, guided us through various maternity environments within the hospital, outlining both positive aspects and weaknesses of the acoustic conditions. As referenced in the literature, the Neonatal ICU faces a paradox: it is an environment that requires excellent acoustic performance, but depends on numerous monitors and alarm sounds for real-time patient monitoring (16).
Throughout the visit, there was never a single full minute without a sound being emitted by one of the devices. According to Dr. Abimael, in 95% of Brazilian hospitals, the ICU layout consists of a single large room with multiple incubators. This design leads to the accumulation of noise from each patient, which interferes with the well-being of others in the unit.
The nursing staff reported that there are specific time slots for baby hygiene and morning medical exams, which are performed before parents’ visitation hours. During this time, the cry of one baby often triggers crying among the others, further escalating the noise levels.
Additionally, a particular neonatal case was discussed:
The physician explained the vulnerability of premature infants to external environments, emphasizing that ideally, they should still be in the maternal womb, where their comfort and stability would be optimal. However, since most ICU patients are either premature or suffer from medical conditions, special attention must be given to the acoustic design of neonatal environments to foster a healing atmosphere for both infants and healthcare professionals.
One potential solution considered was white noise, which can mask environmental noise by generating a constant sound. Some studies suggest that this technique helps newborns sleep better and remain calmer, contributing to a stable heart rate (22).
During the visit to the Surgical Center, the doctor pointed out that most deliveries at Vera Cruz Hospital are scheduled cesarean sections, conducted in isolated operating rooms within the Surgical Center dedicated to Maternity services.
On the same corridor as the operating rooms, there are PPP (Pre-labor, Labor, and Postpartum) suites, designed with an adaptable layout to minimize patient movement before and after childbirth.
This integrated room layout could address many of the complaints raised by mothers regarding hospital accommodation, as it enhances comfort, privacy, and accessibility by consolidating all necessary infrastructure for the mother, baby, and companion in a single location.
During the research phase, twenty mothers were interviewed regarding their experience during hospitalization for childbirth.
The interview script aimed to assess the perception of mothers in different contexts, considering:
Through these interviews, the study sought to correlate hospital comfort, privacy, and infrastructure with hospital design and the humanization of maternity care.
As shown in the results,
Figure 02- Target Audience Information
When asked about the fears they faced during hospitalization, it was observed that the most common concerns were related to pain, the feeling of loneliness in cases where they were not allowed to have a companion, insecurity about the care received, discomfort in the environment, and anxiety about the conditions of other patients. Regarding the comfort provided by the environment in which they were accommodated, the most positive responses highlighted the importance of having their personal moment respected, enjoying privacy and a humanized childbirth experience, with background music to ease the discomfort caused by noise (6).
When addressing issues related to noise during their stay in the hospital, approximately 75% of the mothers reported noticing the influence of this factor. The most frequently mentioned sounds included crying babies, women in labor, conversations among healthcare professionals, and traffic noise. Additionally, mothers pointed out noise from hospital renovations, traffic, and medical equipment as other significant sources of disturbance.
In order to understand the origin of the sounds most noticed by the mothers, they were asked about the noisiest times of the day. The results indicated that the morning period had the highest noise levels, with the patient rooms, reception area, and pre-labor rooms being perceived as the least comfortable environments by the patients.
When describing the level of discomfort caused by noise disturbances, 65% of the mothers reported being significantly affected during hospitalization.
Mothers also pointed out how noise affected their babies’ sleep and acknowledged its influence on heart rate regulation.
In response to open-ended questions, mothers recognized the correlation between privacy and comfort, highlighting the main weaknesses of their hospital accommodation:
By contrast, mothers who had the privilege of giving birth in private hospitals emphasized how a humanized birth experience and respect for their personal moment contributed significantly to their comfort and well-being.
A survey directed at healthcare professionals was answered by seven workers, including doctors, a Neonatal ICU coordinator, a clinical analyst, nurses, and biomedical professionals.
Among those interviewed:
This perspective aligned with the mothers’ reports, which also highlighted the reception area and patient rooms as particularly noisy environments, since patients spend more time in these spaces than hospital staff.
When asked about areas with better acoustic isolation, the Neonatal ICU and Pediatric Oncology Unit were ranked highest in performance, followed by hospitalization rooms.
On the other hand, the Emergency Room and PPP (Pre-labor, Labor, and Postpartum) rooms had the lowest acoustic insulation ratings, which explains the complaints raised by mothers regarding these areas.
Another key point to consider is that 85.7% of healthcare professionals stated that no internal policies exist to minimize noise in hospital hallways. This information reinforces patient complaints about external noise disturbances (conversations, carts, and other operational sounds) propagating into maternity accommodations (6).
Regarding noise’s impact on concentration:
According to healthcare workers, minimizing noise effects requires:
Table 1- Noisy environments in hospitals from the perspective of employees
Healthcare professionals emphasized that hospital infrastructure should act as a noise-reducing agent, as acoustic comfort can facilitate both the birthing process and postpartum recovery.
The spreadsheet below summarizes the considerations cited by healthcare professionals.
Simultaneously with the research phase, an internship was conducted at the Arkisantè Hospital Architecture Office, where Architect Marcelo Nascimento Lima and his team provided insights on hospital acoustic treatment and generously shared design projects illustrating possible solutions.
According to these professionals, the most acoustically demanding area in a hospital is the Neonatal ICU, followed by the Emergency Room and Reception Area.
The design team emphasized the importance of hospital layout in enhancing acoustic insulation in patient rooms and private spaces.
Regarding the use of hospital facades as noise barriers, they pointed out that:
The company was responsible for the renovation and construction project of Maternidade Santa Thereza, located in downtown Campinas. Given their experience, they were asked about methods to minimize renovation noise disturbances for patients, as some mothers had reported discomfort due to construction sounds.
Their response:
Table 2- The influence of noise on environmental comfort and patient well-being
Designers, in agreement with mothers and healthcare professionals, identified patient rooms, the emergency room, and social areas as the most critical for acoustic treatment. They also highlighted the value of vegetation in reception, lounge, and circulation areas for both sound absorption and hospital humanization. Common acoustic treatment materials include Thermowall panels with fiberglass or rock wool, double-glazed glass, and specialized ceiling panels. Acalve Engenharia, an acoustic insulation company, confirmed that while fiberglass is widely used, hospitals typically prefer rock wool.
Table 3- Acoustics: problems and solutions in hospital environments
Qualitative research underscores how the perception of environmental noise can adversely impact mothers, neonates, and the healthcare team during the childbirth process. Given the inherent vulnerability of this period characterized by pain, discomfort, and psychological stress, the hospital infrastructure must function as a therapeutic environment, fostering a sense of safety and ensuring optimal physical comfort. Such conditions are essential for facilitating medical procedures and promoting the recovery of both parturients and newborns.
A well-designed acoustic environment contributes to enhanced perceptions of security and well-being, while also supporting the concentration, efficiency, and overall performance of healthcare professionals, ultimately improving the quality of the childbirth experience for all involved.
The acoustic quality of hospital environments is crucial for patient recovery and staff well-being. Achieving sustainable and humanized acoustic comfort is essential for the construction industry, healthcare professionals, and patients.
Strategic hospital design, material innovations, surface treatments, and vegetation incorporation can enhance both performance and aesthetics. Despite challenges like sterilization requirements and noise from medical equipment and staff, well-designed spaces with energy-efficient solutions can minimize unwanted noise and create a healing environment. (20; 15).
A major challenge remains in establishing sustainable acoustic insulation materials. Experts emphasize the need for thorough testing and cost-benefit analyses to increase credibility. For widespread adoption, new sustainable materials must gain acceptance from key companies in the acoustic treatment industry.
[1] Graduate student in Healthcare Architecture at the Albert Einstein Education and Research Center, Bachelor of Civil Engineering from Mackenzie Presbyterian University. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0002-1408-7322.
[2] PhD in Architecture and Urbanism from the University of São Paulo, Master of Education from the Pontifical Catholic University of Campinas, and Bachelor of Architecture and Urbanism from the Pontifical Catholic University of Campinas. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2841-0680. Lattes Curriculum: http://lattes.cnpq.br/5316939262726140.
[3] Advisor. PhD in Health Sciences from the Sírio-Libanês Hospital Institute of Education and Research, Master of Biomolecular Physics from the São Carlos Institute of Physics at the University of São Paulo, Specialist in Data Science from Mackenzie Presbyterian University, and Bachelor of Physical and Biomolecular Sciences from the São Carlos Institute of Physics at the University of São Paulo. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6592-5149. Lattes Curriculum: http://lattes.cnpq.br/1974608269182326.
Author Contributions:
Isabella Caroline Carvalho Pinto: Study conception, development of the theoretical framework, planning and application of data collection instruments, data analysis, and final writing of the manuscript.
Adriana Volpon Diogo Righetto: Project supervision/advocacy, critical review of the content, methodological support, and validation of the obtained data.
Mariana Zuliani Theodoro de Lima: Technical consultancy in building materials assessment, contributions to the design of sustainable acoustic solutions, and technical review of the content.
Conflict of Interest:
None declared.
Acknowledgements:
The authors would like to thank the support of the Pibic/MackPesquisa 2019 scholarship (Undergraduate Research Incentive Program of Mackenzie Presbyterian University – Resolution 01/97 and CD/IPM Deliberation 001/2004).
Funding:
This research received no external funding.
Note on the use of AI:
The authors declare the use of ChatGPT (GPT-5) for text enhancement and proofreading, contributing to the clarity, structure, and adaptation of the language to the academic/professional context. However, all content searching, quality assessment of the cited articles, and the original writing were conducted by the authors. The authors remain fully responsible and accountable for the final material.
Copyright and License Information:
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
The names and addresses provided to this journal will be used exclusively for the services provided by this publication and will not be made available for other purposes or to third parties.
Metadata and Legal Details:
Publication History:
Material received: July 18, 2025.
Peer-approved: August 19, 2025.
Edited material approved by the authors: January 22, 2026.
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