Dr. Sandhya Ghai
National Institute of Nursing Education, Post-graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, India
Title: A quality improvement study to evaluate the effectiveness of Noise Reduction Package in reducing the level of noise and stress of health care providers in NICUâ€
Biography
Biography: Dr. Sandhya Ghai
Abstract
Noise affects people psychologically and physiologically. The environment affects the delicate brain of the preterm deleteriously; thus, noise in NICU is a special concern. The AAP, 2007 recommends noise in NICU ≤ 45dB.
SMART AIMS:
- To decrease the average noise in NICU by 25% from the pre – intervention levelsover 8 weeks.
- To decrease the level of stress of health care personal working in NICU by 25%over 8 weeks.
METHODS: Noise reduction program was implemented by taking baseline measurements using a Digital Sound Level meter, Casella Cell 63X at random locations. Multiple and Intensive discussions was conducted with staffs of NICU and the QI group consisting of active clinicians and nurses regarding their views on noise and its effects on stress level and to formulate strategies to reduce the noise level such as sensitization programme, quiet hours and so on. Interventions were grouped in Eisenhower matrix and a multiphase Plan–Do–Study–Act cycle was run. Regular feedbacks after each cycle was provided to motivate strategy adherence.
RESULTS:Descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS and QI Macros 2017 was employed to analyse the data. The overall decrease in the mean of the equivalent level is 7.03%, 7.72% and 7.74%, and a significant decrease in the peak level is 11%, 7.02% and 12.45% in the morning, evening and night shift respectively. Major sources of noise reported to be from equipment’s, alarms and human voice. Stress score significantly decreased with a mean difference of 6.45 and p<0.001
CONCLUSIONS: Findings of the study have substantial inferences for neonatal care as well as the general health of the Health care providers and pinpoints the significance of noise monitoring in NICU. Constant reinforcement and regular interaction between the QI team and the staffs of NICU is essential to bring change in behaviour and culture and to reach the recommended goal.