Preparation and Evaluation of a Protocol of Environmental Noise Reduction on the Sound Level of NICU of Al –Zahra Medical Center.

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Harmful effects of noise on sensory and neurological development in premature infants, has made noise reduction programs have become to one of the main requirements for the care of premature infants in the NICU. This study was performed for preparation and evaluation of a protocol of environmental noise reduction on the sound level of NICU of Al –Zahra Medical Center. Methods: An interventional study with pre –post -test design was done. By using sound level meter at 4 days and 24 times the average (Leq), relatively loudness (L10), maximum (Lmax), and peak of sound levels (Lzpeak) were measured and sources of noise were determined. The development and implementation of Noise reduction protocol was based on existing facilities and to eliminate or mitigate noise sources. Sound levels were measured after the protocol was done. By using paired t test, pre and post protocol results were compared and Noise reduction protocol was evaluated. Results: Before the protocol sound levels average was measured 63.46 dB (56.10-104.80 dB). Dropping metal files created the extreme sound level (104 dB) in the NICU. Nursing round was the noisiest time and had direct relationship with numbers of people in the NICU. The intensity of noise sources includes use of metal sink, students' attendance nursing and physician rounds, alarm devices and trolleys moving. After protocol mean of sound levels 59.43 dB (53-102.60 dB) was significantly reduced (p=0.000). Discussion: Assessment of sound level is necessary for NICU. This protocol is successful to reduce the sound level of NICU to 4 dB by eliminating of noise sources. It increase quite times and improves nursing care. Our results can be useful in standardization of NICU wards in our country.