A two-pronged approach to reduce noise levels in the neonatal intensive care unit

Abstract Objectives The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a visual noise feedback system and “quiet time” in reducing noise levels in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Design A prospective cross-sectional study was performed in a combined level II/III NICU at a Canadian tertiary care hospital. Noise levels were recorded continuously for three weeks without and then three weeks with visual noise feedback system. Noise levels were compared after one year of using visual feedback, and subsequently with the addition of two “quiet times.” Results Visual feedback reduced noise levels from 54.2 dB (95% CI 53.8–54.7 dB) to 49.4 dB (95% CI 48.9–49.8 dB; P  Conclusions While visual noise feedback system reduced noise levels in the short term, these effects were not sustainable at one year and could not be remediated with the addition of a Quiet Time initiative. Continuing education regarding the detrimental effects of noise is paramount to ensure persistent noise reduction in the NICU.