Evaluation of noise levels and noise sources in an Irish neonatal intensive care unit.

OBJECTIVES: This study: (i) quantified the typical noise levels in an Irish neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and compared the values to recommendations by the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) and the European Standards for Care for Newborn Health (EFCNI) and to occupational exposure limit value and exposure action values; and (ii) qualified the perception of noise levels and the sources of noise across the various stakeholders within a typical NICU.

METHODS: A noise survey was conducted in an Irish NICU. Observations identified practices and behaviours in the NICU that potentially had an impact on noise levels. Noise levels were compared to occupational exposure limits and AAP and EFCNI standards. A noise perception survey was conducted to identify noise sources and awareness of noise levels in the NICU. Results were analysed using SPSS Statistics to determine statistical significance.

RESULTS: Noise levels recorded were consistent with previous similar studies and in all cases, the average noise levels recorded exceeded the 45 dBA as recommended by the AAP and EFCNI. There was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.01) between noise levels recorded on the day shift compared to the night shift. The perception of noise levels reported by nurses versus parents was found to be statistically significant (P = 0.001). 38.3% of all respondents reported having received no information or training with regard to noise in the NICU. There was a statistically significant difference in the perception of who is most likely to be affected by noise in the NICU, with nurses reporting those most likely to be affected by noise were patients, and parents reporting those most likely to be affected were staff (P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS: This study supports the hypothesis that noise levels within the NICU are of concern and require regular assessment and monitoring. Training and awareness programmes are an important component to ensuring all persons in the NICU recognise their potential impact on noise levels in the NICU and in reducing the risk for patients and staff.