Perceived Effects of Ergonomic Hospital Garment Design on Patient Comfort, Mobility, and Recovery Experience in Specialist Hospitals in Enugu State, Nigeria

This study investigated the perceived effects of ergonomic hospital garment design on patient comfort, mobility, and recovery experience in specialist hospitals in Enugu State, Nigeria. Traditional hospital gowns prioritize clinical functionality while often compromising patient dignity, comfort, and movement, potentially impeding recovery. Employing a descriptive survey design, the research examined 100 post-surgical inpatients from two specialist hospitals using a validated structured questionnaire with four clusters: physical comfort, mobility and rehabilitation support, dignity and psychological well-being, and overall recovery experience. Data were analyzed using mean scores and standard deviations, with a criterion mean of 2.50. Findings revealed that ergonomic hospital garments significantly enhanced physical comfort (grand mean = 3.15), with fabric softness and skin-friendliness rated highest, though temperature regulation required improvement. The garments positively influenced mobility and rehabilitation support (grand mean = 3.15), particularly regarding medical equipment compatibility and bed transfers. The strongest impact was observed in dignity and psychological well-being (grand mean = 3.25), with adequate coverage and modesty receiving the highest rating across all variables. Overall recovery experience was positively influenced (grand mean = 3.18), with patients reporting enhanced mental well-being and stress reduction. The study concludes that ergonomically designed hospital garments address critical yet often neglected dimensions of patient care, significantly improving comfort, mobility, dignity, and recovery experiences. However, moderate mean scores indicate substantial opportunities for further enhancement, particularly in individualized design features accommodating diverse patient needs, medical conditions, and cultural contexts.