Astrid Elsbernd, Marcel Schmucker

• Objectives: This study aims to understand the usage patterns, requirements, and user satisfaction regarding hospital nightstands in a German maximum-care hospital, and to derive recommendations for product improvements. Background: Hospital nightstands are crucial for patient care, providing storage and access for personal and medical items. Despite their importance, limited research exists on their functionality, particularly in Germany. Current designs often fail to meet user needs. Method: A convergent mixed-methods design was used, combining photographic documentation of nightstands with item content counting and an online questionnaire for patients, relatives, nursing staff, and other hospital personnel. Data analysis included categorisation and coding in MAXQDA, along with descriptive statistics. Results: Thirty-eight nightstands were documented, revealing variations in use intensity: low, moderate, and intensive. Items included food, personal belongings, and medical supplies, with many loose medications observed. User satisfaction was mixed, with criticism of poor mobility, impractical drawers, and inadequate cable management. Lack of integrated power outlets and privacy features were also noted. Conclusion: Hospital nightstands need significant design improvements to better meet privacy, mobility, and storage needs. Recommendations include better electrification options, more accessible storage, and enhanced privacy features. Future research should focus on smaller, more adaptable designs suited to modern hospital environments.