The newly renovated maternity ward at Ringerike Hospital in the Norwegian city of Hønefoss was completed in June 2021 after a four-year construction period. As part of the renovation, the ward implemented Chroma Zenit Circadian Lighting from Chromaviso, and it has had a positive impact on both the staff, expectant mothers, and their families.
After the maternity ward installed stimulus and circadian lighting, there has been an increase in well-being among the staff, expectant mothers, and their families. Mette Nordbø, a department midwife at Ringerike Hospital, emphasizes the importance of the birth environment.
— As a midwife, I focus on creating a positive atmosphere. It influences the birthing process and contributes to a better experience, she says.
According to Mette Nordbø, the lighting setting called 'comfort' is one of the new lighting settings that contributes to creating a pleasant atmosphere.
The comfort light is frequently used. The soft yellow light creates a soothing ambiance, especially upon arrival, helping to alleviate anxiety and stress.
—Mette Nordbø, department midwife at Ringerike Sygehus.
She further explains that the first impression of a delivery room is crucial as it sets the tone for what is about to happen. The combination of various elements in the room creates an atmosphere, and excessive visual noise causes unease and stress. Therefore, lighting plays a significant role in the overall experience.
Pleasant to work in
The staff has expressed great satisfaction with the new circadian lighting system. Mette Nordbø explains that the employees describe it as "pleasant to work in" and that it helps provide situation-specific lighting.
Therefore, it is also important to have the ability to turn on the emergency lighting in urgent situations. Mette Nordbo elaborates that they used to use the operating room lamp to provide indirect light, but the disadvantage is that it is associated with surgeries and surgical procedures for some people. In contrast, the circadian lighting system works better while also providing good lighting for the work. The calming light, which is pink in color, is also frequently used during childbirth. The staff finds that it has a soothing effect and creates a positive atmosphere, which is important for creating the best conditions possible for the person in labor.
Survey shows general satisfaction
In collaboration between the staff at Ringerike Hospital and Chromaviso, a user survey on circadian lighting was conducted in September 2021. The questions were based on the staff's own experiences and how they perceived the reactions from expectant mothers and their families. Among the respondents were midwives, doctors, and nurses.
The survey revealed a general satisfaction with the lighting. The different lighting settings are frequently used in different stages of childbirth and as an active tool to create a positive atmosphere. In terms of operation, the staff finds it user-friendly and easy to control. Additionally, it has a positive effect on their own well-being, including energy levels, sleep, headaches, and mood.
