Expectations and satisfaction among patients during inpatient stay

Purpose: Aim of the study was to examine the expectations of patients at th e beginning and the satisfaction at the end of a hospital stay. The hospita l settings were standardised. Methods: 510 patients on the cardiological ward were asked to fill in a que stionnaire on the first and last day of their stay. Results: The admitted patients stated clear expectations in respect of the hospital facilities and staff. The most important aspects for the patients were the qualification of staff and the time physicians and nurses would de vote to the patient, and the medical and technical equipment of the hospita l, Beds per room, food, length and costs of the stay were less important in patients' expectations. On the day of discharge, the patients were very sa tisfied with the staff and medical equipment, in contrast to a low satisfac tion regarding additional fees and the number of beds per room (three). Conclusions: Since cost-benefit is a basic need in running a hospital today , financial resources should be enhanced in the spheres which are equally m edically important for fulfilling the expectations of the patients. Therefo re, the number of staff and the qualification of the medical professionals should be financed instead of supporting architectural and room design. Accordingly, the patients' main criteria for choosing a hospital is the med ical equipment provided and the qualification of the medical staff. In conc lusion, these aspects should be publicised for meaningful decision-making. Medical professionals should be encouraged to inspire competence and to spe nd as much time as possible with each individual patient.