A mixed-methods approach to evaluate fit and comfort of the hospital patient gown. Issue 2 (4th May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jankovska, Daniela; Park, Juyeon
• Is Part Of: International journal of fashion design, technology and education. Volume 12:Issue 2(2019)
• Page Start: 189
• Page End: 198
• Publication Date: 2019-05-04
• Subjects: Hospital patient gown -- fit -- comfort -- mixed-methods; Fashion design -- Periodicals; Clothing trade -- Periodicals; 746.92
• DOI: 10.1080/17543266.2018.1551942
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1754-3266

Abstract

ABSTRACT: We identified fit and comfort issues in the hospital patient gown (HPG) that evoke the patients' physical and psychological discomfort caused by wearing an ill-fitting garment. This research inquiry required a holistic perspective to comprehend the research phenomenon from the convoluted individual variance. To achieve the goal, we developed a mixed-methods strategy that consisted of the surveys, 3D body scanning, scenarios activities, and exit interviews, and conducted the study with 85 participants (47 males and 38). The study findings indicated gender and age trends in preferences for clothing fit, anthropometric body dimensions, and perceived discomfort experienced during scenario activities. Exit interviews evinced supplementary insights to the quantitative data. We hope that the findings ofthis study lay useful groundwork for researchers, designers, and manufacturers in exploring and evaluating novel design solutions for a new HPG to serve as many patients as possible for their overall well-being and positive hospitalization experience.