Background Noise in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) can significantly impact on the neurodevelopment of both term and preterm infants. Excessive sound stimuli may cause abnormal brain and sensory development in preterm infants, as well as potential cochlear damage and hearing loss. To mitigate these risks, the American Academy of Paediatrics recommends noise not exceeding 45 decibels (dB) in NICUs. Additionally, continuous exposure to noise in the NICU can affect the well-being of parents and healthcare professionals.

Aim Our objective was to collect data and assess noise levels on NICU to understand the factors associated with high and low levels of noise. Our further aim was to use the data to promote education about the negative impact of noise for term and preterm infants and increase staff awareness on how to reduce noise levels.

Results In October 2022, we installed a ‘Sound Ear’ decibel (dB) monitor within the NICU, which continuously records and stores sound levels. This device acts as a traffic light system, lightening up green for safe noise levels (up to 50dB), amber as a warning (51db to 70db), and red for unsafe levels (above 70dB). Since its implementation, we have consistently monitored noise, identifying specific triggers for noise levels within the amber and red zones. We identified ward rounds, closing and opening of bin containers, monitors and syringe alarms as the most common source of noise.

Conclusion This project is ongoing, but it has already yielded valuable insights and promoted positive changes. Staff awareness of noise levels has increased, an educational video on the impact of noise on NICU has been shared with all hospital staff (available on the hospital intranet), and transitioning to quieter bin containers has been considered.