How the NICU environment sounds to a preterm infant: update.
OBJECTIVE
To replicate a previously published descriptive study of sound levels in the NICU.


METHODS
A descriptive study of nursery ambient sound levels and sound levels associated with nursery equipment and care activities was conducted in a Level III NICU. Measurements were obtained using a sound level meter and evaluated in light of previous findings.


RESULTS
Contrasted with 16 years ago, room sound levels were reduced; however sound levels associated with caregiving, equipment, and activities continue to be high.


CONCLUSIONS
Sound levels continue to be a clinical challenge for NICU nurses. This study suggests some modification of care practices and equipment selection that could reduce sound levels and concludes that sound reduction is a continuing need in neonatal care.
School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. kthomas@u.washington.edu
Karen A
KA
Thomas
Annie
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Uran
D001143:Arousal; D015400:Clinical Nursing Research; D004781:Environmental Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000032:analysis* / Q000517:prevention & control; D004784:Environmental Monitoring; D004867:Equipment Design; D006272:Health Facility Environment / Q000458:organization & administration; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D007186:Incubators, Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature / Q000502:physiology / Q000523:psychology; D007363:Intensive Care Units, Neonatal / Q000458:organization & administration*; D015931:Intensive Care, Neonatal; D007374:Interior Design and Furnishings; D017283:Neonatal Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration; D009622:Noise / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000517:prevention & control; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors; D013018:Sound Spectrography