AMETS

A sound archive and web platform for listening to natural soundscapes in hospital settings

A palliative listening device designed to accompany experiences of illness, fragility and finitude

“Pleasant natural sounds constitute a simple, safe and non-pharmacological intervention that can be used to relieve pain.”

Vahid Saadatmand et al., Effects of Natural Sounds on Pain

The portable palliative listening device (AMETS) is a complementary, non-invasive form of patient support intended to offer consolation, attentive presence and subjective relief from discomfort.

AMETS is situated within approaches to the humanisation of care. It incorporates cultural and artistic practices that attend to the emotional, subjective and relational dimensions of the hospital experience and contribute to person-centred care. It is integrated naturally and respectfully with existing medical treatments and protocols, without interfering with them.

The device combines a sound archive, an online platform and a portable listening system that can be adapted to the conditions of each institution and the circumstances of each patient. AMETS offers a selection of natural soundscapes and sonic environments chosen for their capacity to foster calm, relaxation and consolation.

Listening takes place through headphones and portable audio systems fitted with antimicrobial covers or protective sleeves.

A brief anonymous online questionnaire may subsequently be offered to gather each participant’s subjective experience and improve the device. AMETS takes Dr Guglielmo Foffani’s “Neurodiálogos en clave de sol” model as a methodological reference. He serves as scientific adviser on the methodological design, ethical framework and interpretation of the anonymous data collected.

The context is approached with care and respect at all times, following the guidance of the institution and its medical professionals.

“Conceiving hospital sound as a soundscape, rather than merely as noise, makes it possible to understand its capacity to improve patients’ experience and recovery.”

Timothy O. Iyendo, Exploring the Effect of Sound and Music on Health in Hospital Settings

A project forming part of Mikel R. Nieto’s Horizontal Listening research programme, in collaboration with La Panera (Lleida) and with support from the Spanish Ministry of Culture through the “Public Grants for the Creation, Research and Production of Artistic Projects in Residence” (2025).

Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan — Funded by the European Union — Next Generation EU. Government of Spain, Ministry of Culture.