Adapting the neonatal intensive care environment to decrease noise.
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.
Johnson
Amy Nagorski
AN
University of Delaware, Newark, Del., USA. Ajohnson@udel.edu
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