Sound levels in a neonatal intensive care unit significantly exceeded recommendations, especially inside incubators

Aim This study measured sound levels in a 2008 built French neonatal intensive care unit ( NICU ) and compared them to the 2007 American Academy of Pediatrics ( AAP ) recommendations. The ultimate aim was to identify factors that could influence noise levels. Methods The study measured sound in 17 single or double rooms in the NICU . Two dosimeters were installed in each room, one inside and one outside the incubators, and these conducted measurements over a 24‐hour period. The noise metrics measured were the equivalent continuous sound level ( L eq ), the maximum noise level ( L max ) and the noise level exceeded for 10% of the measurement period ( L 10 ). Results The mean L eq , L 10 and L max were 60.4, 62.1 and 89.1 decibels ( dBA ), which exceeded the recommended levels of 45, 50 and 65 dBA (p < 0.001), respectively. The L eq inside the incubator was significantly higher than in the room (+8  dBA , p < 0.001). None of the newborns’ characteristics, the environment or medical care was correlated to an increased noise level, except for a postconceptional age below 32 weeks. Conclusion The sound levels significantly exceeded the AAP recommendations, particularly inside incubators. A multipronged strategy is required to improve the sound environment and protect the neonates’ sensory development.