Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 8, 2026
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
Effectiveness of a noise control program in a neonatal intensive care unit
Revista Brasileira De Terapia Intensiva
|August 17, 2013
Summary
A noise control program in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) successfully raised awareness among professionals about noise levels. Participants adopted behavioral changes, such as speaking lower and handling equipment carefully, to reduce noise exposure for neonates.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Management
- Environmental Health
- Neonatal Care
Background:
- Noise pollution in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) poses risks to vulnerable infants and healthcare professionals.
- Effective noise control strategies are crucial for improving patient outcomes and the work environment in NICUs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact and effectiveness of a noise control program implemented in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Hospital Universitário Santa Maria (NICU-HUSM).
- To evaluate changes in professional behavior and awareness regarding noise levels within the NICU setting.
Main Methods:
- Informal interviews and distribution of informational materials (leaflets, posters) to NICU-HUSM professionals across different shifts.
- Implementation of suggested behavioral modifications, including reducing vocal volume, careful equipment handling, and silencing mobile phones.
- Post-intervention assessment using questionnaires to evaluate behavioral changes one month after the initial contact.
Main Results:
- A majority of professionals perceived NICU-HUSM noise levels as moderate.
- Over 71% of respondents admitted to engaging in noisy behaviors.
- Professionals believed noise could be reduced by speaking softer, responding promptly to alarms, and handling furniture with care, and reported adopting these measures.
Conclusions:
- The noise control program was deemed successful in enhancing professional awareness of NICU noise levels.
- Professionals demonstrated a willingness to adopt behavioral changes to minimize unnecessary noise generation, contributing to a quieter NICU environment.
