Decreasing Noise Level in Our NICU

Abstract

The literature demonstrates that most NICUs exceed the standard recommendations for noise levels and that high noise levels have a negative impact on patients and staff. The objective of this research was to measure baseline noise level in an NICU, compare it to recommendations of international bodies, and evaluate the impact of a noise awareness educational program (NAEP) as a strategy to decrease it. Means of hourly average noise levels in decibels (dB) were compared with the recommendations and pre- and postintervention (P = .05). Mean noise-level preintervention was significantly higher than recommended (58.15 vs 45 dB; P < 0.001). The participation rate in NAEP was excellent and most participants thought that the content was relevant and would change their practice. Overall, at first glance, the impact of the NAEP was not as expected: the noise levels increased nonsignificantly postintervention (58.15 vs 58.46 dB; P < .181). However, a significant increase in activity level (number of nurses and patient) was thought to be responsible for the lack of significance postintervention. After controlling for these variables, it was demonstrated that the noise level did significantly decrease postintervention (6.33 vs 5.42 dB per RN & 4.68 vs 4.08 dB per patient, P < .000). Although the efficacy of the program was significantly limited by an increase in general activity, it raised staff awareness and had important effects reflected by the significant decrease in mean noise level after standardization and the participant's comments.