Assessing Noise Levels in a Mexican Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Results From an Observational Study.

Abstract

Background: In recent decades, noise pollution has become a significant concern, especially in sensitive environments such as hospitals. For neonates in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), noise can have serious implications due to their underdeveloped auditory and physiological systems. Elevated noise levels in NICUs have been linked to disruptions in normal physiological parameters and can negatively impact both neonatal health and staff performance. Aim: To identify and quantify sources of noise in the intensive care unit of a hospital NICU. Methods: An observational study was conducted to assess noise levels in a Mexican NICU. Noise measurements were taken across 22 different scenarios identified as potential noise sources, during all three shifts to capture variations throughout the day. Results: Noise levels ranged from 45 to 70 decibels (dB). The nursing shift change was identified as the scenario with the highest noise level, while the paper dispenser area recorded the lowest. These findings highlight specific times and locations within the NICU where noise reduction interventions should be focused. Conclusions: Targeted noise control strategies, especially during shift changes, could significantly improve the acoustic environment in NICUs, helping to safeguard neonatal well-being and staff performance.