Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Acoustic Interventions in Healing Environments

Abstract

High noise levels in hospitals pose risks to both patients and staff, inducing stress, discomfort, and restlessness. This study presents results from a noise survey conducted in a Dhaka teaching hospital, revealing daytime levels ranging from 48 to 63 dB LAeq, exceeding Bangladesh standards. Noise levels correlated with ward layout and sources, not patient demographics. Strategies such as noise reduction, acoustic materials, and staff/patient programs can improve hospital acoustics effectively. This study reviews research from multiple disciplines including medicine, psychology, architecture, and acoustics, focusing on topics such as hospital noise, sleep quality, patient privacy, and music therapy. Findings indicate hospitals often exceed recommended noise levels, negatively impacting patients and staff with sleep problems, higher blood pressure, and burnout. Poorly designed sound environments compromise patient privacy and communication. Strategies like private rooms, sound-absorbing materials, and music therapy are recommended to reduce noise levels and improve communication. To enhance patient confidentiality, private rooms with sound-blocking features are suggested. Overall, the study underscores the importance of sound management in healthcare and advocates for design strategies to mitigate noise-related issues while ensuring effective communication. KEY WORDS: Noise, patient, acoustic, healthcare, hospital.