Neonatal network : NN
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Neonatal network : NN · Mar 2010
Randomized Controlled TrialVariations of NICU sound by location and time of day.
The primary aim of this study was to identify time periods of sound levels >45 decibels (dB) in a large Level III NICU. The second aim was to determine whether there were differences in decibel levels across the five bays of the NICU, the four quadrants within each bay, and two 12-hour shifts. ⋯ All sound levels were >45 dB, with average readings ranging from 49.5 to 89.5 dB. The middle bay had the highest levels, with an Leq of 85.74 dB. Quadrants at the back of a bay were louder than quadrants at the front of a bay. The day shift had higher decibel levels than the night shift. Covariates did not differ across bays or shifts.