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[Communication behavior of staff in intensive care units as an influencing factor on noise: a qualitative study]
Stefan Walzer1, Fabian Montigel2, Isabel Schön3
1Institut Mensch, Technik und Teilhabe (IMTT), Fakultät III - Health, Medical & Life Sciences, Furtwangen, Deutschland.
Abstract:
Communication behavior of staff in intensive care units as an influencing factor on noise: a qualitative study Abstract: Background: Intensive care units are among the noisiest areas of a hospital, with negative effects on patients and staff. Noise management is intended to reduce noise in intensive care units. However, the effectiveness of such measures has not been sufficiently proven. In addition to technical equipment, conversations between staff are an important factor in noise generation. To date, there is a lack of knowledge about communication behaviour and its effects on noise development in intensive care units. Aim: Development of a better understanding of staff behavior and attitudes towards noise management in daily ward routines, with a particular focus on communicative aspects. Methods: Qualitative approach with six participant observations and ten semi-structured interviews with staff. We collected data between 06/2023-08/2023. The analysis of the participant observations was based on grounded theory, while the interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results: Conversations are a significant factor for noise development in intensive care units but are also necessary in functional and cultural terms. Challenges lie in the competition between priority demands and conversation norms as well as in architectural conditions. Conclusions: The findings of this study can be used to further optimize noise management in intensive care units regarding conversations. The specific setting of the intensive care unit must be taken into account.
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