Evidence-based Circadian Lighting – a clear choice at Örebro University Hospital

Lighting based on research. That was the priority, when lighting was chosen at the new intensive care and neuro intermediate section at Örebro University Hospital.

“When we have the opportunity to build modern – we should build modern.”

Those were words of Ulrika Thörn, Health Technology Responsible & Intensive Care Nurse at the Intensive Care Unit at Örebro University Hospital, when she got the responsibility as a construction and relocation coordinator at the new H-building project. The intensive care was extended by 4 beds in combination with a new neuro intermediate section. The project started in 2016, where Thörn took part in deciding lighting system. The clear-cut choice was Chromaviso evidence-based circadian lighting.

“There was never any talk. We wanted a good lighting,” says Thörn. “At work, we always base our decisions on science. If there is any research in this area, we want to take advantage of it. The science-based research made it interesting.”

Work environment and patient care

An increased wellbeing among the staff and an improved patient care were two essential results.

“One of the bigger problems with intensive care patients, is that they do not get a stabile circadian rhythm and it is disrupted constantly,” Thörn describes. “The patients suffer from hallucinations and a changed perception of reality. If you can do anything to improve their circadian rhythm, it is worth everything.”

Choice of provider

When the time came to select lighting, Thörn and her colleagues visited other hospitals to see what options there were. One visit led to Hudiksvall Hospital, where they had chosen an evidence-based lighting from Chromaviso. Apart from them being satisfied with the results, there was a clear guidance from Chromaviso that made Thörn interested.

“Chromaviso has a concept. They know what the research says, they know what satisfies the customer and they know how to balance science with outcome. They propose solutions and make necessary changes to produce results. It feels like a different kind of holistic solution, that motivated us,” Thörn explains.

Ulrika Thörn, Health Technology Responsible & Intensive Care Nurse at Örebro University Hospital

Initial difference

The circadian lighting was recently installed, meaning that some time needs to pass before Thörn can make a complete evaluation of its effects. But she already notices a difference.

“It is fantastic in the middle of the day, having a clear bright light whilst working. When you are spending time in the old facilities, you observe a significant distinction. In the old part, you feel a little bit ‘pushed down’ by the light. You can already notice a difference.”

Turnkey solution

Chromaviso have in cooperation with Örebro University Hospital provided a holistic delivery whilst implementing the lighting solution. To secure an optimal effect and satisfaction, Chromaviso have trained the staff in using the circadian lighting.

“There have been follow-ups, adjustments, timer improvements etc. to ensure a good quality solution. There are no hesitations to call if we need anything. I am pleased,” says Thörn.

Facts about Chromaviso

Chromaviso circadian lighting is called Chroma Zenit. It is evidence-based and clinically documented in research. The lighting recreates the beneficial effects of natural lighting. It changes automatically as the day progresses. With a gentle sunrise and a powerful daylight, the solution supports a healthy circadian rhythm, improved sleep and increased energy.

Chromaviso are leading experts in circadian lighting for intensive care/rehabilitation, psychiatry, and dementia care. The lighting protocol is adapted to diagnoses, behavior and the department needs – developed in collaboration with sleep experts, doctors, and researchers. It becomes an active part of treatment and a supplementation to medicine. The solution is based on experience from +120 hospitals with +2000 lighting installations in Scandinavia.

In Sweden, circadian lighting is installed amongst others at Skåne University Hospital, Karlstad Central Hospital, Academic Hospital Uppsala, Skaraborg Hospital in Skövde and Värnamo Hospital.