A systematic review of noise pollution in hospitals

The issue of noise pollution in hospitals has been discussed since 1851. Numerous studies have examined sound levels and sources of noise in hospitals, revealing that noise levels in hospitals often exceed the recommended standards from the World Health Organization (WHO). Noise pollution in hospitals has psychological and physical consequences for patients and staff. Identifying and implementing noise-reduction strategies in hospitals significantly improves acoustic conditions in these settings. This systematic review aims to identify and assess noise-generating sources across various hospital departments and the components that reduce noise in hospitals. Utilizing PRISMA guidelines (the Prisma checklist consists of 27 items related to the content of a systematic review and meta-analysis), data were gathered from five databases: Scopus database, Web of Science database, ScienceDirect database, Sage database, and Willey database. A total of 72 articles, dated between 2012 and 2024, were reviewed. Noise levels were recorded at 61-66 dB in intensive care units and 63 dB in inpatient wards. Most interventions for noise reduction have been managerial, with fewer engineering-based solutions. While interventions generally led to noise reduction, levels still did not meet WHO standards. Analysis of the articles identified patient-staff conversations and medical equipment alarms as the most frequently reported noise sources. Based on an extensive classification framework, noise-reducing components were grouped into six categories: noise management, equipment, materials, functional space, furniture, and cultural patterns, under three strategies: managerial, physical, and cultural.