title: Adapting the neonatal intensive care environment to decrease noise.
abstract: A protocol of environmental noise reduction was developed and tested over a 14-month period in a 70-bed tertiary care neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Evidence-based research and a detailed sound assessment guided the development of the protocol. Modifications of caregiving activities and categorized changes in the physical environment were specific to the NICU tested; however, guidelines for adapting the protocol to other NICUs are explained as well as methods for implementation to promote staff awareness and cooperation are reviewed.
authors.affiliation: University of Delaware, Newark, Del., USA. Ajohnson@udel.edu
authors.forename: Amy Nagorski
authors.initials: AN
authors.lastname: Johnson
mesh_terms: D019090:Case Management; D005260:Female; D006272:Health Facility Environment / Q000592:standards*; D006749:Hospital Design and Construction / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007363:Intensive Care Units, Neonatal / Q000592:standards*; D008873:Mid-Atlantic Region; D017283:Neonatal Nursing / Q000592:standards; D009622:Noise / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011247:Pregnancy; D012107:Research Design; D013997:Time Factors