Patient preferences for a single or shared room in a hospice.

This study considers the preferences of hospice patients in relation to whether they would like to stay in a single or a shared bedroom and what factors might affect those preferences. It takes note of the circumstances that are likely to be found in a hospice in relation to difficult symptoms such as diarrhoea, the process of dying and noise from other patients. The findings show that patients generally have a preference for single rooms in order to preserve their dignity, respect and privacy. It also shows that choice is important and that a number of shared rooms will always be required for patients who prefer to have company.