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ISSN 0185-3252 (Print)
Revista de la Asociación Médica del Centro Médico ABC

2018, Number 3

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An Med Asoc Med Hosp ABC 2018; 63 (3)

Measurement and analysis of noise levels in a neonatal intensive care unit

Vargas CDA, Luna MM, Braverman BA, Iglesias LJ, Bernárdez ZI

Language: Spanish
References: 10
Page: 165-168
PDF size: 201.00 Kb.


ABSTRACT

Background: The overexposure or deprivation of favorable stimuli impact the neurological and sensorial development of preterm newborns hospitalized in neonatal intensive care units (NICU). Based on this fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics establishes a maximum noise level of 45 decibels for these units. Objective: The aim of this study is to determine if the noise level in the NICU of the Hospital Espańol de México is within the thresholds that allow a satisfactory evolution of these newborns, as well as to identify the factors associated with its increase. Material and methods: An observational, descriptive and analytical study was carried out during February 2017. Sound levels were registered on a continuous basis with the use of a sonometer. Results: Noise levels consistently exceeded the maximum limit established. Conclusion: Controlling noise levels must be a priority in neonatal intensive care units. Medical staff should be trained on the short- and long-term effects that noise pollution has in newborns and a noise reduction plan that is personalized to each hospital must be drafted.


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