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11:50
Clinical Practice Protocol of Creative Music Therapy for Preterm Infants and Their Parents in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Published on: January 7, 2020
How the NICU environment sounds to a preterm infant: update
1School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. kthomas@u.washington.edu
MCN. the American Journal of Maternal Child Nursing
|August 2, 2007
Summary
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) ambient sound levels have decreased, but noise from caregiving and equipment remains high. Reducing noise in neonatal care is crucial for patient well-being.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Environmental Health
- Acoustics
Background:
- Noise pollution in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) is a significant environmental stressor.
- Previous studies have identified high sound levels as a challenge in neonatal care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To replicate a prior descriptive study on NICU sound levels.
- To assess current ambient and activity-related sound levels in a Level III NICU.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive study design was employed.
- Sound levels were measured using a sound level meter in a Level III NICU.
- Data were compared with findings from 16 years prior.
Main Results:
- Ambient room sound levels have decreased compared to 16 years ago.
- Sound levels associated with caregiving, equipment, and activities remain high.
- Ongoing noise challenges persist in the NICU environment.
Conclusions:
- High sound levels continue to present a clinical challenge for NICU nurses.
- Modifications in care practices and equipment selection may reduce NICU noise.
- Continuous efforts toward sound reduction are essential in neonatal care.
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