Noise levels in a pediatric intensive care unit: an observational and correlational study

ABSTRACT

Aim: To measure noise levels in a pediatric intensive care customer unit and discuss the consequences of such noise in relation to professional actions. Method: This is an observational and correlational study, performed in the pediatric intensive care unit of a federal hospital in Rio de Janeiro. We measured the noise level by decibel DEC-460 for five non-consecutive days and nights at five different hours. After a descriptive analysis of data, we performed a study of linear regression. Results: We identified an average of 62.64 dBA, with a standard deviation of 6.893 dBA and peak of 82.5 dBA during the daytime. The linear regression found that 44% of the variability of the noise is explained by the covariables. Discussion: The noise levels identified exceed recommendations of national and international organizations. We identified the professional actions and interactions as the main sources of noise. Conclusion: There is an urgent need to rethink this environment and establish educational strategies for noise reduction, making it safer and healthier.