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Stummer S, Reuter C, Czedik-Eysenberg I, Bertsch M, Klebermass-Schrehof K, Mader J, Buchmayer J, Bartha-Doering L, Berger A, Giordano V. "Every breath you take": evaluating sound levels and acoustic characteristics of various neonatal respiratory support and ventilation modalities. Front Pediatr 2024; 12:1379249. [PMID: 38706923 PMCID: PMC11066168 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1379249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Early sensory experiences have a significant impact on the later life of preterm infants. The NICU soundscape is profoundly influenced by various modalities of respiratory support or ventilation, which are often mandatory early in the care. The incubator, believed to shield from external noise, is less effective against noise originating inside. The objective of this study was to evaluate the sound levels and characteristics of frequently used respiratory support and ventilation modalities, taking into consideration the developing auditory system of premature infants. Methods To evaluate sound dynamics inside and outside an incubator during respiratory support/ventilation, experimental recordings were conducted at the Center for Pediatric Simulation Training of the Medical University Vienna. The ventilator used was a FABIAN HFOI®. Results Jet CPAP (Continuous positive airway pressure), whether administered via mask or prongs, generates significantly higher sound levels compared to High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) and to High-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) delivered through an endotracheal tube. Upon evaluating the sound spectrum of jet CPAP support, a spectral peak is observed within the frequency range of 4 to 8 kHz. Notably, this frequency band aligns with the range where the hearing threshold of preterm infants is at its most sensitive. Conclusion Non-invasive HFNC and invasive HFOV generate lower sound levels compared to those produced by jet CPAP systems delivered via masks or prongs. Moreover, HFNC and HFOV show a reduced acoustic presence within the frequency range where the preterm infant's hearing is highly sensitive. Therefore, it is reasonable to speculate that the potential for auditory impairment might be more pronounced in preterm infants who require prolonged use of jet CPAP therapy during their time in the incubator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Stummer
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Matthias Bertsch
- Department of Music Physiology, University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katrin Klebermass-Schrehof
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Mader
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Buchmayer
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lisa Bartha-Doering
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Pediatric Pulmonology, Allergology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Angelika Berger
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vito Giordano
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Balk SJ, Bochner RE, Ramdhanie MA, Reilly BK. Preventing Excessive Noise Exposure in Infants, Children, and Adolescents. Pediatrics 2023; 152:e2023063753. [PMID: 37864408 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2023-063753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Noise exposure is a major cause of hearing loss in adults. Yet, noise affects people of all ages, and noise-induced hearing loss is also a problem for young people. Sensorineural hearing loss caused by noise and other toxic exposures is usually irreversible. Environmental noise, such as traffic noise, can affect learning, physiologic parameters, and quality of life. Children and adolescents have unique vulnerabilities to noise. Children may be exposed beginning in NICUs and well-baby nurseries, at home, at school, in their neighborhoods, and in recreational settings. Personal listening devices are increasingly used, even by small children. Infants and young children cannot remove themselves from noisy situations and must rely on adults to do so, children may not recognize hazardous noise exposures, and teenagers generally do not understand the consequences of high exposure to music from personal listening devices or attending concerts and dances. Environmental noise exposure has disproportionate effects on underserved communities. In this report and the accompanying policy statement, common sources of noise and effects on hearing at different life stages are reviewed. Noise-abatement interventions in various settings are discussed. Because noise exposure often starts in infancy and its effects result mainly from cumulative exposure to loud noise over long periods of time, more attention is needed to its presence in everyday activities starting early in life. Listening to music and attending dances, concerts, and celebratory and other events are sources of joy, pleasure, and relaxation for many people. These situations, however, often result in potentially harmful noise exposures. Pediatricians can potentially lessen exposures, including promotion of safer listening, by raising awareness in parents, children, and teenagers. Noise exposure is underrecognized as a serious public health issue in the United States, with exposure limits enforceable only in workplaces and not for the general public, including children and adolescents. Greater awareness of noise hazards is needed at a societal level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie J Balk
- Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Risa E Bochner
- Department of Pediatrics, New York City Health and Hospitals Harlem, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York
| | | | - Brian K Reilly
- Otolaryngology and Pediatrics, George Washington University Medical School, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia
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Varty D, Minhas K, Gillis S, Rourke S. Skin-to-Skin Therapy on High-Frequency Jet Ventilation: A Trauma-Informed Best Practice. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF RESPIRATORY THERAPY : CJRT = REVUE CANADIENNE DE LA THERAPIE RESPIRATOIRE : RCTR 2023; 59:175-182. [PMID: 37781345 PMCID: PMC10540160 DOI: 10.29390/001c.84446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Objective To mitigate trauma for infants on high-frequency jet ventilation by decreasing exposure to noise and facilitating skin-to-skin therapy. Design Key drivers were identified, and we designed and implemented equipment and processes through a series of interventions. A mixed methods evaluation was used. Retrospective chart reviews assessed safety (unplanned extubation) and stability parameters. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to understand parent and staff experiences. Results Stability parameters demonstrated safe skin-to-skin therapy. Data from the interviews showed that parents and staff experiences focused on safety, connection and healing. Conclusion Implementing safe processes to support skin-to-skin therapy during high-frequency jet ventilation is possible. We hope other units will be encouraged to examine their current practices for infants on high-frequency jet ventilation to help mitigate trauma for infants and parents while enhancing staff satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dallyce Varty
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Royal Columbian Hospital
- Fraser Health Authority
| | - Kuljit Minhas
- Fraser Health Authority
- Respiratory Therapy Royal Columbian Hospital
| | - Sarah Gillis
- Fraser Health Authority
- Perinatal Royal Columbian Hospital
| | - Sarah Rourke
- Maternal, Infant, Child, Youth Program Fraser Health Authority
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Singh D, Fusch G. Investigating Noise Exposure to Newborn Infants From Respiratory Support: Methodological Considerations. Cureus 2021; 13:e19353. [PMID: 34909314 PMCID: PMC8653757 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.19353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and objective Excessive noise in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) may lead to serious long-term effects on hearing and sensory development in newborns. As such, the maximum allowed noise level is 45 A-weighted decibels (dBA). Studies regarding noise exposure to ventilated preterm infants show inconsistent results; however, these studies also vary considerably in their methodology in terms of noise ascertainment. We hypothesized that the study methodology can significantly influence data quality when measuring noise levels. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether the variations in ventilator noise levels in NICUs could be a result of methodological differences in study designs. Methods A ventilator circuit was set up using nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) and high-frequency (HF) modes with nasal prongs. Noise levels were measured using a commercially calibrated noise meter. Three different scenarios were tested: (1) measurements were taken at different angles (0° to 180°), with 180° facing the end of the nasal prongs, without a mannequin, with the membrane/orifice of the noise meter placed 2 mm laterally from the prongs; (2) noise levels were measured at 180° at distances of 0-20 mm from the nasal prongs; (3) measurements were taken in the oral cavity of a life-size intubation mannequin of a newborn baby. Results Overall, the noise levels produced at different settings varied significantly, ranging from 45.7 dB to 82.2 dB. The average environmental background noise was 44.4 dB. Noise levels typically increased as the angle increased, with the highest noise level recorded at 180° for both HF and nCPAP modes, at 58.4 dB and 58.2 dB, respectively. Noise levels recorded at HF were slightly higher than nCPAP values. Furthermore, with regard to distance, the highest mean value, 82.2 dB, was recorded with the noise meter approximately 3 mm from the nasal prongs, and the lowest mean value, 47.6 dB, was recorded at ~20 mm. During trials with the mannequin, the lowest value, 50.1 dB, was recorded at the entrance of the mouth with slightly higher values being recorded within the oral cavity. Conclusion The results indicate that small changes in experimental settings, such as positioning and distance from the nasal prongs, can greatly influence noise levels, particularly above the recommended levels for neonates. These differences may be attributed to wind-generated noise. In summary, some study results are potentially influenced more by the study design than the device type or ventilator setting. We recommend further research and detailed reporting in the NICU to gain deeper insights into the topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devika Singh
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, CAN
| | - Gerhard Fusch
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, CAN.,Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, CAN
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