SOURCES OF SOUND LEVELS IN NICU AND INCUBATOR

Abstract

Introduction: Currently there is limited research regarding estimated intrauterine sound levels. Benzaquen, Gagnon, Hunse& Foreman (1990) suggest however that intrauterine noise consists predominantly of low-frequency noise with sound levels being 40 dB above 500 Hz. Ideally, to promote healthy auditory development, sound levels in the NICU should be consistent with intrauterine environment. Each part has two sections A and B, the section A Methodology: is from more sick babies requiring Level 3 NICU care, whereas the section B is for babies requiring Level 2 NICU care. Our unit is 20 beded NICU with 15 beds level III and 5 beds level II unit, the study was conducted in level III unit. All sources of noise levels higher than 55 dBA in the NICU n Results: eed to be eliminated or mitigated. Since the alarms of equipments were important sources of noise in the NICU, eliminating or decreasing volume of alarms will reduce sound level. Every NICU requires a sound level assessment system in order to achieve environmental noise limiting guidelines and to get closer to the standard sound levels. Conclusion:By evaluating sound levels, the sources of noise can be identied and their effects on sound levels can be studied.