Social Robots in Hospital Settings: an Initial Exploration of the Services Provided, Interaction Style and in the Field Evaluation.

There is interest in using social robots in hospitals but little understanding of how they engage with users to fulfil their roles. Research in the field helps understand how HRI may occur naturally. We conducted a scoping review of literature on social robots in hospital settings, using the Arksey and O'Malley 5-step method. This report presents an initial synthesis of 19 studies. The robots performed various tasks, from greeting and educating visitors to social companionship, supporting healthcare delivery, carrying goods, and educating staff. Most were physically embodied, but three were embodied conversational agents (virtual robots). To engage with interaction partners, 89% used speech and 79% used motions, gestures, and facial expressions. Less commonly used was written text and tactile interaction. Further personalizing interactions, introducing creativity, and focusing on the wild aspects of HRI could help support the application of social robots in hospital settings.