Environmental "white noise": an intervention for verbally agitated nursing home residents

This study presents preliminary data on the efficacy of two environmental "white noise" audiotapes for the treatment of verbal agitation in severely demented nursing home residents. The researchers employed a computer-assisted real-time observational system to assess both the frequency of verbal agitation and the actual use of the intervention on the nursing units (treatment fidelity). Intervention by nurse aides (NAs) on the unit was preceded by a researcher-controlled functional analysis phase that provided information regarding which of the two audiotapes would be most effective for individual residents. Results indicate a 23% reduction in verbal agitation with this individualized treatment strategy on the nursing units. These results were obtained even though treatment fidelity data showed that the audiotapes were used during only 51% of the observations. The authors discuss the need for formal staff management procedures for increasing staff compliance with treatment regimens.