This study aimed to investigate the actual noise conditions in adult Intensive Care Units (ICUs) according to type, time, day of the week, and area. Methods: This study was conducted from February to March 2018. ICU noise levels were examined using a noise meter with a microphone an amplifier, auditory correction circuit, and indicator meter capable of directly reading A-weighted decibels (dBA). Noise was measured for 24 hours for seven days and the average dBA, maximum dBA, and minimum dBA were recorded. Results: The highest mean noise level was 58.48 dBA (range of 57.62~65.27), while lowest was 51.65 dBA (range of 51.36~52.86). Average noise levels on weekdays and weekends were over 50 dBA(the open zone was measured at 56.61 dBA, while the isolation zone was measured at 52.45 dBA. Further, daytime, evening work-times and weekdays were measured above 60 dBA, while nighttime noise levels were below 60 dBA. Finally, average noise levels during turnarounds, shift changes, and rounding times were above 60 dBA; open zone had higher average noise levels than the isolation zone. Conclusion: This study showed that ICU noise levels exceeded those recommended by the World Health Organization regardless of type of noise, day of the week, or time. Therefore, studies are proposed to identify the need or importance of noise management by ICU personnel to reduce noise in ICUs. It also proposes studies to develop and apply noise reduction strategies that can be easily used in practice, reflecting the various characteristics of noise in ICUs.
This study aimed to develop an intervention to reduce noise in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and evaluate the effects of applying it. Methods: The research design was a non-equivalent control group quasi-experimental study. To develop noise reduction interventions in ICUs, preliminary intervention techniques to reduce noise were derived through a literature review, field survey, and focus group interviews. The intervention was developed by verifying the validity of the content and the clinical applicability, and the result was applied to practice. To assess the effect of the intervention, the following were evaluated: noise level in the ICU, perceived noise level, response to noise, satisfaction of patients and staff with noise management, sleep quality of patients, noise-related knowledge, and perception and performance of noise management of the staff. Results: With the intervention developed in this study, the noise level in the ICU, perceived noise level, and response to noise of patients and staff decreased, and satisfaction with noise management increased. The sleep quality of patients, noise-related knowledge, and perception and performance of noise management of the staff increased. Conclusion: This intervention is shown to be effective in reducing the noise level in the ICU. Therefore, if it is used actively in practice, it is expected to create a comfortable environment by reducing the noise level in the ICU.
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