The role of positive distraction in neonatal intensive care unit settings

The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is a stressful environment for both families and caregivers. Positive distraction is a means of mitigating stress. A review of research reveals that several factors in the physical environment can contribute to positive distraction, the most prominent of which are nature, art and music. Design interventions that provide positive distraction and can be introduced into the NICU setting are window views of pleasant outside vistas, soothing artwork and the ability to listen to music.