A new study shows that noise in the intensive care unit can go well above recommended levels, according to an article on the Science Daily website.
Recommended average sound levels for hospital wards are below 35 decibels (dBA) with a maximum of 40 dBA at night. Reported sound levels in ICUs are significantly higher with average sound levels always exceeding 45 dBA and for 50 percent of the time exceeding 52.
In the study, a sound level meter was placed bedside in a two-bed room as well as at the nursing station. Measurements were performed after a two-week adjustment period to avoid potential bias from people being aware noise was being observed.
Bedside, average sound levels were 52.8 dBA during the night and 54.6 dBA during the day.
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