The effect of noise meters giving visual and auditory alarms used on reducing noise in neonatal intensive care unit

Aim: This study was conducted to determine the effect of the use of a noise meter emitting visual and auditory alarms on reducing noise. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in an experimental design in a hospital in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). In the study, a noise meter emitting visual and auditory alarms and a digital noise meter were placed in a room (group 1); whereas, in the other room, only a digital noise meter was placed (group 2). The noise meter emitting visual and auditory alarms was hung on the most visible wall in the room and thus visual and auditory alarms were provided to the staff members in the room. The digital noise meter was hidden behind a closet in the same area in both rooms. The noise levels of the rooms were measured via the digital noise meter in both rooms in a way that data would come in continuously for two weeks. Results: It was found that the total mean noise level in group 1 was significantly lower than group 2 for the two weeks (p<0.01). It was determined that the noise levels on weekdays and at the weekend were significantly lower in group 1 than group 2 in week 1 (p<0.01); whereas, in week 2 there was no difference between the groups in terms of the noise levels on weekdays and at the weekend (p>0.05). Conclusion: The use of a noise meter emitting visual and auditory alarms might be effective in reducing noise in NICUs.