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Sibrecht G, Wróblewska-Seniuk K, Bruschettini M. Noise or sound management in the neonatal intensive care unit for preterm or very low birth weight infants. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2024; 5:CD010333. [PMID: 38813836 PMCID: PMC11137833 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd010333.pub4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) are subjected to different types of stress, including sounds of high intensity. The sound levels in NICUs often exceed the maximum acceptable level recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, which is 45 decibels (dB). Hearing impairment is diagnosed in 2% to 10% of preterm infants compared to only 0.1% of the general paediatric population. Bringing sound levels under 45 dB can be achieved by lowering the sound levels in an entire unit; by treating the infant in a section of a NICU, in a 'private' room, or in incubators in which the sound levels are controlled; or by reducing sound levels at the individual level using earmuffs or earplugs. By lowering sound levels, the resulting stress can be diminished, thereby promoting growth and reducing adverse neonatal outcomes. This review is an update of one originally published in 2015 and first updated in 2020. OBJECTIVES To determine the benefits and harms of sound reduction on the growth and long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes of neonates. SEARCH METHODS We used standard, extensive Cochrane search methods. On 21 and 22 August 2023, a Cochrane Information Specialist searched CENTRAL, PubMed, Embase, two other databases, two trials registers, and grey literature via Google Scholar and conference abstracts from Pediatric Academic Societies. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs in preterm infants (less than 32 weeks' postmenstrual age (PMA) or less than 1500 g birth weight) cared for in the resuscitation area, during transport, or once admitted to a NICU or stepdown unit. We specified three types of intervention: 1) intervention at the unit level (i.e. the entire neonatal department), 2) at the section or room level, or 3) at the individual level (e.g. hearing protection). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used the standardised review methods of Cochrane Neonatal to assess the risk of bias in the studies. We used the risk ratio (RR) and risk difference (RD), with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs), for dichotomous data. We used the mean difference (MD) for continuous data. Our primary outcome was major neurodevelopmental disability. We used GRADE to assess the certainty of the evidence. MAIN RESULTS We included one RCT, which enroled 34 newborn infants randomised to the use of silicone earplugs versus no earplugs for hearing protection. It was a single-centre study conducted at the University of Texas Medical School in Houston, Texas, USA. Earplugs were positioned at the time of randomisation and worn continuously until the infants were 35 weeks' postmenstrual age (PMA) or discharged (whichever came first). Newborns in the control group received standard care. The evidence is very uncertain about the effects of silicone earplugs on the following outcomes. • Cerebral palsy (RR 3.00, 95% CI 0.15 to 61.74)and Mental Developmental Index (MDI) (Bayley II) at 18 to 22 months' corrected age (MD 14.00, 95% CI 3.13 to 24.87); no other indicators of major neurodevelopmental disability were reported. • Normal auditory functioning at discharge (RR 1.65, 95% CI 0.93 to 2.94) • All-cause mortality during hospital stay (RR 2.07, 95% CI 0.64 to 6.70; RD 0.20, 95% CI -0.09 to 0.50) • Weight (kg) at 18 to 22 months' corrected age (MD 0.31, 95% CI -1.53 to 2.16) • Height (cm) at 18 to 22 months' corrected age (MD 2.70, 95% CI -3.13 to 8.53) • Days of assisted ventilation (MD -1.44, 95% CI -23.29 to 20.41) • Days of initial hospitalisation (MD 1.36, 95% CI -31.03 to 33.75) For all outcomes, we judged the certainty of evidence as very low. We identified one ongoing RCT that will compare the effects of reduced noise levels and cycled light on visual and neural development in preterm infants. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS No studies evaluated interventions to reduce sound levels below 45 dB across the whole neonatal unit or in a room within it. We found only one study that evaluated the benefits of sound reduction in the neonatal intensive care unit for hearing protection in preterm infants. The study compared the use of silicone earplugs versus no earplugs in newborns of very low birth weight (less than 1500 g). Considering the very small sample size, imprecise results, and high risk of attrition bias, the evidence based on this research is very uncertain and no conclusions can be drawn. As there is a lack of evidence to inform healthcare or policy decisions, large, well designed, well conducted, and fully reported RCTs that analyse different aspects of noise reduction in NICUs are needed. They should report both short- and long-term outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Sibrecht
- II Department of Neonatology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | | | - Matteo Bruschettini
- Paediatrics, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden, Lund, Sweden
- Cochrane Sweden, Department of Research and Education, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
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Cuervo R, Rodríguez-Lázaro MA, Farré R, Gozal D, Solana G, Otero J. Low-cost and open-source neonatal incubator operated by an Arduino microcontroller. HARDWAREX 2023; 15:e00457. [PMID: 37538251 PMCID: PMC10393824 DOI: 10.1016/j.ohx.2023.e00457] [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: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
An unacceptably large number of newborn infants die in developing countries. For a considerable number of cases (particularly in preterm infants), morbidity and mortality can be reduced by simply maintaining newborn thermal homeostasis during the first weeks of life. Unfortunately, deaths caused by prematurity remain inordinately common in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) due to reduced access to incubators in light of the high cost of commercially available devices. We herein describe and test a low-cost and easy-to-assemble neonatal incubator created with inexpensive materials readily available in LMICs. The incubator is based on an Arduino microcontroller. It maintains controlled temperature and relative humidity inside the main chamber while continuously measuring newborn weight progress. Moreover, the incubator has a tilting bed system and an additional independent safety temperature alarm. The performance of the novel low-cost neonatal incubator was evaluated and successfully passed the IEC 60601-2-19 standards. In the present work, we provide all the necessary technical information, which is distributed as open source. This will enable assembly of very low-cost (<250 €) and fully functional incubators in LMICs that should help reduce neonatal mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubén Cuervo
- Unitat de Biofísica i Bioenginyeria, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Ramon Farré
- Unitat de Biofísica i Bioenginyeria, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Madrid, Spain
- Institut Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Gozal
- Departments of Child Health and Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, and The Child Health Research Institute, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Gorka Solana
- Faculdade de Engenharias e Tecnologias, Universidade Save, Maxixe, Mozambique
| | - Jorge Otero
- Unitat de Biofísica i Bioenginyeria, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Madrid, Spain
- Institut de Bioenginyeria de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
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Lokwani P, Gupta N, Choudhary SK, Singh AK. Noise survey of neonatal intensive care unit at a government tertiary-care centre. J Neonatal Perinatal Med 2023; 16:619-625. [PMID: 38043020 DOI: 10.3233/npm-230031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With technological advancement, Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) have become noisier than ever. Studies have shown the detrimental effects of increasing noise in NICU on growing pre-term and sick neonates. The present study aimed to survey the amount of noise in one of the NICU blocks of a government tertiary care centre and explore ways to control it when dealing with these sick babies. METHODS A detailed noise survey was carried out, for February 2023, in one of the two blocks of NICU in a government tertiary-care centre. The noise measurements were performed using two "Sound Ear 3" noise meters. The analyses were done in Leq (equivalent continuous sound levels) A-weighted decibels (dBA). RESULTS The extracted data analysis revealed that the NICU block was exposed to a mean Leq of 67.78 dBA noise with a maximum of 89.0 dBA. There was a significant difference between the values noted in devices at different locations and across different periods. There were certain instances (57 and 42 for two devices) when there were sudden spikes in the noise levels beyond 80 dBA. It was also seen that noise was more than 65 dBA most of the time (72% and 66% for the two devices). CONCLUSION The noise survey carried out over one month revealed a considerable amount of noise in the NICU of a government tertiary-care centre. The study also explored ways such as environmental modification, human behavior modification, awareness programs, and neonatal-centered modifications to reduce the noise and lower its detrimental effects on the growth of neonates.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Lokwani
- Audiologist, Model Early Intervention Centre, Department of Neonatology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
| | - N Gupta
- Department of Neonatology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
| | - S K Choudhary
- Department of Neonatology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
| | - A K Singh
- Department of Neonatology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
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Reuter C, Bartha-Doering L, Czedik-Eysenberg I, Maeder M, Bertsch MA, Bibl K, Deindl P, Berger A, Giordano V. Living in a box: Understanding acoustic parameters in the NICU environment. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1147226. [PMID: 37051427 PMCID: PMC10083238 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1147226] [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: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In the last years, a significant body of scientific literature was dedicated to the noisy environment preterm-born infants experience during their admission to Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). Nonetheless, specific data on sound characteristics within and outside the incubator are missing. Therefore, this study aimed to shed light on noise level and sound characteristics within the incubator, considering the following domain: environmental noise, incubator handling, and respiratory support. Methods The study was performed at the Pediatric Simulation Center at the Medical University of Vienna. Evaluation of noise levels inside and outside the incubator was performed using current signal analysis libraries and toolboxes, and differences between dBA and dBSPL values for the same acoustic noises were investigated. Noise level results were furthermore classed within previously reported sound levels derived from a literature survey. In addition, sound characteristics were evaluated by means of more than 70 temporal, spectral, and modulatory timbre features. Results Our results show high noise levels related to various real-life situations within the NICU environment. Differences have been observed between A weighted (dBA) and unweighted (dBSPL) values for the same acoustic stimulus. Sonically, the incubator showed a dampening effect on sounds (less high frequency components, less brightness/sharpness, less roughness, and noisiness). However, a strong tonal booming component was noticeable, caused by the resonance inside the incubator cavity. Measurements and a numerical model identified a resonance of the incubator at 97 Hz and a reinforcement of the sound components in this range of up to 28 dB. Conclusion Sound characteristics, the strong low-frequency incubator resonance, and levels in dBSPL should be at the forefront of both the development and promotion of incubators when helping to preserve the hearing of premature infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Reuter
- Musicological Department (Acoustics/Music Psychology), University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Correspondence: Christoph Reuter
| | - Lisa Bartha-Doering
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Isabella Czedik-Eysenberg
- Musicological Department (Acoustics/Music Psychology), University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Music Technology and Digital Musicology Lab, Institute for Musicology and Music Pedagogy, Osnabrück University, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Marcus Maeder
- Department of Engineering Physics and Computation, School of Engineering and Design, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias A. Bertsch
- Department of Music Physiology, University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katharina Bibl
- Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Philipp Deindl
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine, University Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Angelika Berger
- Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vito Giordano
- Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Puyana-Romero V, Núñez-Solano D, Fernández-Zacarías F, Jara-Muñoz E, Hernández-Molina R. The Importance of Reverberation for the Design of Neonatal Incubators. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:584736. [PMID: 33898352 PMCID: PMC8058181 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.584736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Low frequency noises are predominant in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Some studies affirm that neonates can perceive noises from 113 Hz, and can therefore be affected by sound sources with high spectral content at low frequencies (e.g., incubator engine, air fan). Other studies suggest that reverberation amplifies noise within incubators. In this paper, the reverberation time (T, T 30) within an incubator with standard dimensions was measured in one-third octave bands. To get reliable results, the T was measured in 15 positions at the neonate's ear height, in a room with low T values (to reduce the influence of the room in the results), using an impulsive sound method. Results show a heterogeneous T distribution at the neonate's ear height, with maximum average T differences between positions of 1.07 s. The highest average T of all microphone positions is 2.27 s at 125 Hz, an extremely high mean value for such a small space. As the frequency of electrical devices in America is 60 Hz, some harmonics lay within the one-third octave band of 125 Hz, and therefore may create a very reverberant and inappropriate acoustic environment within the audible spectrum of neonates. As the acoustic environment of the incubator and the room are coupled, it is expected that the results are higher in the NICUs than in the room where the measurements were conducted, as NICUs are more reverberant. Therefore, it is recommended that the T will be limited in the international standards, and that incubator designers take it into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Puyana-Romero
- Grupo de Investigación Entornos Acústicos, Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Aplicadas, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Daniel Núñez-Solano
- Grupo de Investigación Entornos Acústicos, Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Aplicadas, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito, Ecuador
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Hutchinson G, Du L, Ahmad K. Incubator-based Sound Attenuation: Active Noise Control In A Simulated Clinical Environment. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0235287. [PMID: 32667931 PMCID: PMC7363066 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0235287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Noise in the neonatal intensive care unit can be detrimental to the health of the hospitalized infant. Means of reducing that noise include staff training, warning lights, and ear coverings, all of which have had limited success. Single family rooms, while an improvement, also expose the hospitalized infant to the same device alarms and mechanical noises found in open bay units. Methods We evaluated a non-contact incubator-based active noise control device (Neoasis™, Invictus Medical, San Antonio, Texas) in a simulated neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) setting to determine whether it could effectively reduce the noise exposure of infants within an incubator. In the NICU simulation center, we generated a series of clinically appropriate sound sequences with bedside medical devices such as a patient monitor and fluid infusion devices, hospital air handling systems, and device mechanical sounds. A microphone-equipped infant mannequin was oriented within an incubator. Measurements were made with the microphones with the Neoasis™ deactivated and activated. Results The active noise control device decreased sound pressure levels for certain alarm sounds by as much as 14.4 dB (a 5.2-fold reduction in sound pressure) at the alarm tone’s primary frequency. Frequencies below the 2 kHz octave band were more effectively attenuated than frequencies at or above the 2 kHz octave band. Background noise levels below 40 dBA were essentially not impacted by the active noise control device. Conclusions The active noise control device further reduces noise inside infant incubators. Device safety and potential health benefits of the quieter environment should be verified in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Hutchinson
- Invictus Medical, Inc., San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Lilin Du
- Invictus Medical, Inc., San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Kaashif Ahmad
- Pediatrix Medical Group, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
- Baylor College of Medicine, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
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Almadhoob A, Ohlsson A. Sound reduction management in the neonatal intensive care unit for preterm or very low birth weight infants. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 1:CD010333. [PMID: 31986231 PMCID: PMC6989790 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd010333.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) are subjected to stress, including sound of high intensity. The sound environment in the NICU is louder than most home or office environments and contains disturbing noises of short duration and at irregular intervals. There are competing auditory signals that frequently challenge preterm infants, staff and parents. The sound levels in NICUs often exceed the maximum acceptable level of 45 decibels (dB), recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Hearing impairment is diagnosed in 2% to 10% of preterm infants versus 0.1% of the general paediatric population. Noise may cause apnoea, hypoxaemia, alternation in oxygen saturation, and increased oxygen consumption secondary to elevated heart and respiratory rates and may, therefore, decrease the amount of calories available for growth. Elevated levels of speech are needed to overcome the noisy environment in the NICU, thereby increasing the negative impacts on staff, newborns, and their families. High noise levels are associated with an increased rate of errors and accidents, leading to decreased performance among staff. The aim of interventions included in this review is to reduce sound levels to 45 dB or less. This can be achieved by lowering the sound levels in an entire unit, treating the infant in a section of a NICU, in a 'private' room, or in incubators in which the sound levels are controlled, or reducing the sound levels that reaches the individual infant by using earmuffs or earplugs. By lowering the sound levels that reach the neonate, the resulting stress on the cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, and endocrine systems can be diminished, thereby promoting growth and reducing adverse neonatal outcomes. OBJECTIVES Primary objective To determine the effects of sound reduction on growth and long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes of neonates. Secondary objectives 1. To evaluate the effects of sound reduction on short-term medical outcomes (bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular haemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia, retinopathy of prematurity). 2. To evaluate the effects of sound reduction on sleep patterns at three months of age. 3. To evaluate the effects of sound reduction on staff performance. 4. To evaluate the effects of sound reduction in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) on parents' satisfaction with the care. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library), MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, abstracts from scientific meetings, clinical trials registries (clinicaltrials.gov; controlled-trials.com; and who.int/ictrp), Pediatric Academic Societies Annual meetings 2000 to 2014 (Abstracts2ViewTM), reference lists of identified trials, and reviews to November 2014. SELECTION CRITERIA Preterm infants (< 32 weeks' postmenstrual age (PMA) or < 1500 g birth weight) cared for in the resuscitation area, during transport, or once admitted to a NICU or a stepdown unit. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We performed data collection and analyses according to the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group. MAIN RESULTS One small, high quality study assessing the effects of silicone earplugs versus no earplugs qualified for inclusion. The original inclusion criteria in our protocol stipulated an age of < 48 hours at the time of initiating sound reduction. We made a deviation from our protocol and included this study in which some infants would have been > 48 hours old. There was no significant difference in weight at 34 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA): mean difference (MD) 111 g (95% confidence interval (CI) -151 to 374 g) (n = 23). There was no significant difference in weight at 18 to 22 months corrected age between the groups: MD 0.31 kg, 95% CI -1.53 to 2.16 kg (n = 14). There was a significant difference in Mental Developmental Index (Bayley II) favouring the silicone earplugs group at 18 to 22 months corrected age: MD 14.00, 95% CI 3.13 to 24.87 (n = 12), but not for Psychomotor Development Index (Bayley II) at 18 to 22 months corrected age: MD -2.16, 95% CI -18.44 to 14.12 (n =12). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS To date, only 34 infants have been enrolled in a randomised controlled trial (RCT) testing the effectiveness of reducing sound levels that reach the infants' ears in the NICU. Based on the small sample size of this single trial, we cannot make any recommendations for clinical practice. Larger, well designed, conducted and reported trials are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arne Ohlsson
- University of TorontoDepartments of Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Institute of Health Policy, Management and EvaluationTorontoCanada
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Puyana-Romero V, Núñez-Solano D, Hernández-Molina R, Jara-Muñoz E. Influence of the NICU on the Acoustic Isolation of a Neonatal Incubator. Front Pediatr 2020; 8:588. [PMID: 33072664 PMCID: PMC7536281 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.00588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is a very noisy place as compared to the intrauterine environment. To protect the neonate's health, international guidelines suggest avoiding noise levels above 45 dB in NICUs, but this recommendation is not normally met. The incubator acoustic isolation and the acoustic features of the NICU play important roles in determining the noise measured inside the incubator. In this study, the influence of two types of rooms, one with sound-absorbent covering and the other with reverberant surfaces, on the acoustic isolation of a neonatal incubator was evaluated using three acoustic isolation indexes: the level difference, the apparent sound reduction index, and the standardized level difference. Results show that the acoustic isolation of the incubator is very poor, with a level difference below 11 dBA at all frequencies. At 62.5 Hz, the level difference measured in both rooms exhibits a negative value, indicating that the incubator amplifies the noise coming from the NICU. Isolation of the incubator is poor, and the reverberation time (RT) of the containing room influences RT of the incubator, which is consequently higher when the containing room is reverberant; for example, the incubator RT in the reverberant NICU is 0.72 s higher at 500 Hz than that in a room with sound-absorbent covering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Puyana-Romero
- Grupo de Investigación Entornos Acústicos, Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Aplicadas, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Daniel Núñez-Solano
- Grupo de Investigación Entornos Acústicos, Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Aplicadas, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito, Ecuador
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Noise level in neonatal incubators: A comparative study of three models. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2018; 107:150-154. [PMID: 29501298 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2018.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preterm infants usually have to spend a long time in an incubator, excessive noise in which can have adverse physiological and psychological effects on neonates. In fact, incubator noise levels typically range from 45 to 70 dB but differences in this respect depend largely on the noise measuring method used. The primary aim of this work was to assess the extent to which noise in an incubator comes from its own fan and how efficiently the incubator can isolate external noise. METHODS Three different incubator models were characterized for acoustic performance by measuring their internal noise levels in an anechoic chamber, and also for noise isolation efficiency by using a pink noise source in combination with an internal and an external microphone that were connected to an SVAN958 noise analyzer. RESULTS The incubators studied produced continuous equivalent noise levels of 53.5-58 dB and reduced external noise by 5.2-10.4 dB. CONCLUSIONS A preterm infant in an incubator is exposed to noise levels clearly exceeding international recommendations even though such levels usually comply with the limit set in the standard IEC60601-2-19: 2009 (60 dBA) under normal conditions of use.
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Parra J, de Suremain A, Berne Audeoud F, Ego A, Debillon T. Sound levels in a neonatal intensive care unit significantly exceeded recommendations, especially inside incubators. Acta Paediatr 2017; 106:1909-1914. [PMID: 28477430 DOI: 10.1111/apa.13906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study measured sound levels in a 2008 built French neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and compared them to the 2007 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendations. The ultimate aim was to identify factors that could influence noise levels. METHODS The study measured sound in 17 single or double rooms in the NICU. Two dosimeters were installed in each room, one inside and one outside the incubators, and these conducted measurements over a 24-hour period. The noise metrics measured were the equivalent continuous sound level (Leq ), the maximum noise level (Lmax ) and the noise level exceeded for 10% of the measurement period (L10 ). RESULTS The mean Leq , L10 and Lmax were 60.4, 62.1 and 89.1 decibels (dBA), which exceeded the recommended levels of 45, 50 and 65 dBA (p < 0.001), respectively. The Leq inside the incubator was significantly higher than in the room (+8 dBA, p < 0.001). None of the newborns' characteristics, the environment or medical care was correlated to an increased noise level, except for a postconceptional age below 32 weeks. CONCLUSION The sound levels significantly exceeded the AAP recommendations, particularly inside incubators. A multipronged strategy is required to improve the sound environment and protect the neonates' sensory development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Parra
- Intensive and Regular Neonatal Care Unit; CHR Chambery; Chambéry France
| | | | | | - Anne Ego
- Clinical Research Center (CICO3); CHU Grenoble Alpes; Grenoble France
- CNRS; CHU Grenoble Alpes; VETAGRO SUP; Grenoble Institute of Engineering Univ. Grenoble Alpes; TIMC-IMAG; Univ. Grenoble Alpes; Grenoble France
| | - Thierry Debillon
- Intensive and Regular Neonatal Care Unit; CHU Grenoble Alpes; Grenoble France
- CNRS; CHU Grenoble Alpes; VETAGRO SUP; Grenoble Institute of Engineering Univ. Grenoble Alpes; TIMC-IMAG; Univ. Grenoble Alpes; Grenoble France
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Orsi KCSC, Avena MJ, Lurdes de Cacia Pradella-Hallinan M, da Luz Gonçalves Pedreira M, Tsunemi MH, Machado Avelar AF, Pinheiro EM. Effects of Handling and Environment on Preterm Newborns Sleeping in Incubators. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2017; 46:238-247. [PMID: 28056335 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2016.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/01/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the total sleep time, stages of sleep, and wakefulness of preterm newborns and correlate them to levels of sound pressure, light, temperature, relative air humidity, and handling inside incubators. DESIGN Observational, correlational study. SETTING A neonatal intermediate care unit. PARTICIPANTS Twelve preterm newborns, who were 32.2 ± 4.2 weeks gestational age and weighed 1,606 ± 317 g. METHODS Sleep records were assessed by polysomnograph. Environmental variables were measured with a noise dosimeter, light meter, and thermohygrometer. To record time and frequency of handling, a video camera was used. All recordings were made for an uninterrupted 24-hour period. RESULTS Mean total sleep time in 24 hours was 899 ± 71.8 minutes (daytime = 446 ± 45.3 and nighttime = 448 ± 60.2). Mean wakefulness was 552 ± 94.0 minutes. The predominant stage was quiet sleep. A significant correlation was identified only between the levels of light and wakefulness (r = 0.65 and p = .041). CONCLUSION The environmental conditions and care provided to hospitalized preterm newborns did not influence sleep except for high light levels, which increased wakefulness. Nurses in clinical practice should implement strategies to promote and protect sleep by decreasing newborns' exposure to excessive light.
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Almadhoob A, Ohlsson A. Sound reduction management in the neonatal intensive care unit for preterm or very low birth weight infants. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015; 1:CD010333. [PMID: 25633155 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd010333.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) are subjected to stress, including sound of high intensity. The sound environment in the NICU is louder than most home or office environments and contains disturbing noises of short duration and at irregular intervals. There are competing auditory signals that frequently challenge preterm infants, staff and parents. The sound levels in NICUs often exceed the maximum acceptable level of 45 decibels (dB), recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Hearing impairment is diagnosed in 2% to 10% of preterm infants versus 0.1% of the general paediatric population. Noise may cause apnoea, hypoxaemia, alternation in oxygen saturation, and increased oxygen consumption secondary to elevated heart and respiratory rates and may, therefore, decrease the amount of calories available for growth. Elevated levels of speech are needed to overcome the noisy environment in the NICU, thereby increasing the negative impacts on staff, newborns, and their families. High noise levels are associated with an increased rate of errors and accidents, leading to decreased performance among staff. The aim of interventions included in this review is to reduce sound levels to 45 dB or less. This can be achieved by lowering the sound levels in an entire unit, treating the infant in a section of a NICU, in a 'private' room, or in incubators in which the sound levels are controlled, or reducing the sound levels that reaches the individual infant by using earmuffs or earplugs. By lowering the sound levels that reach the neonate, the resulting stress on the cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, and endocrine systems can be diminished, thereby promoting growth and reducing adverse neonatal outcomes. OBJECTIVES Primary objectiveTo determine the effects of sound reduction on growth and long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes of neonates. Secondary objectives1. To evaluate the effects of sound reduction on short-term medical outcomes (bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular haemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia, retinopathy of prematurity).2. To evaluate the effects of sound reduction on sleep patterns at three months of age.3. To evaluate the effects of sound reduction on staff performance.4. To evaluate the effects of sound reduction in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) on parents' satisfaction with the care. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library), MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, abstracts from scientific meetings, clinical trials registries (clinicaltrials.gov; controlled-trials.com; and who.int/ictrp), Pediatric Academic Societies Annual meetings 2000 to 2014 (Abstracts2View(TM)), reference lists of identified trials, and reviews to November 2014. SELECTION CRITERIA Preterm infants (< 32 weeks' postmenstrual age (PMA) or < 1500 g birth weight) cared for in the resuscitation area, during transport, or once admitted to a NICU or a stepdown unit. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We performed data collection and analyses according to the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group. MAIN RESULTS One small, high quality study assessing the effects of silicone earplugs versus no earplugs qualified for inclusion. The original inclusion criteria in our protocol stipulated an age of < 48 hours at the time of initiating sound reduction. We made a deviation from our protocol and included this study in which some infants would have been > 48 hours old. There was no significant difference in weight at 34 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA): mean difference (MD) 111 g (95% confidence interval (CI) -151 to 374 g) (n = 23). There was no significant difference in weight at 18 to 22 months corrected age between the groups: MD 0.31 kg, 95% CI -1.53 to 2.16 kg (n = 14). There was a significant difference in Mental Developmental Index (Bayley II) favouring the silicone earplugs group at 18 to 22 months corrected age: MD 14.00, 95% CI 3.13 to 24.87 (n = 12), but not for Psychomotor Development Index (Bayley II) at 18 to 22 months corrected age: MD -2.16, 95% CI -18.44 to 14.12 (n =12). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS To date, only 34 infants have been enrolled in a randomised controlled trial (RCT) testing the effectiveness of reducing sound levels that reach the infants' ears in the NICU. Based on the small sample size of this single trial, we cannot make any recommendations for clinical practice. Larger, well designed, conducted and reported trials are needed.
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Abstract
Majority of hearing-loss cases with extremely preterm infants have no known etiology. There is a growing concern that the administration of aminoglycoside treatment in the noisy environment of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) may lead to hair-cell damage and subsequent auditory impairments. In addition, several mitochondrial DNA mutations are known to have been associated with aminoglycoside-induced hearing loss. This review provides a systematic analysis of the research in this area and elucidates the multifactorial mechanisms behind how mitochondrial DNA mutations, aminoglycosides and loud noise can potentiate ototoxicity in extremely preterm neonates. Recommended steps to minimize the risk of ototoxicity and improve clinical care for NICU infants are discussed.
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Daniele D, Pinheiro EM, Kakehashi TY, Balieiro MMFG. [Workers' knowledge and perception regarding noise in the neonatal unit]. Rev Esc Enferm USP 2012; 46:1041-8. [PMID: 23223717 DOI: 10.1590/s0080-62342012000500002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2011] [Accepted: 02/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of the study was to assess the knowledge and perception of professionals working in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) regarding the repercussions of noise on the neonates, families and workers, prior to the implementation of an educational program. This qualitative descriptive study was conducted in a NICU of a São Paulo hospital with 101 professionals. A questionnaire was used for data collection, and chi-square and Student's t test were used to determine the association between variables. The workers described the NICU as very noisy (44.9%); they noticed the effects of noise during and after their work shift (67.4%) and used strategies to reduce noise. Despite not being familiar with legislation regarding noise in the hospital, the workers identify its repercussions on themselves, the neonates and families. Results indicate the need to teach the staff about legislation and noise prevention, as well as reorganize healthcare practices and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Daniele
- Departamento de Enfermagem Pediátrica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brasil.
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