Investigating noise levels in a regional special care nursery

A study on the impact of educational interventions on neonatal care

Noise pollution in neonatal care settings has been associated with adverse outcomes for vulnerable neonates, including increased stress and impaired neurodevelopment.

This study aims to assess noise levels in a regional special care nursery using a Drager sound ear device, comparing the recorded data against established noise guidelines.

Following the initial measurement phase, an educational intervention will be implemented to train nursery staff and parents on the impacts of noise on neonates and introduce effective noise minimisation strategies. Staff and parents/visitors will be invited to complete a short survey (investigating knowledge, attitudes and behaviour) before receiving the education program. Visual cues will also be displayed throughout the nursery to reinforce these strategies. A subsequent measurement of noise levels will be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention.

Research team

Eliza Heinecke (4th year medical student)

Dr Catherine Keniry, CSU SRM

Dr David Newsom, Specialist Paediatrician AWH

Erin Trathen, Associate Nurse Unit Manager- Special Care Nursery AWH

Jane Nichol, Nurse Unit Manager- Special Care Nursery AWH

Our aim

This study seeks to contribute to the body of knowledge regarding noise management in neonatal care settings. By measuring current noise levels and implementing a comprehensive educational intervention, the research aims to foster a quieter, more conducive environment for neonates. The anticipated outcome is a measurable decrease in noise levels, leading to improved health and developmental outcomes for infants in the nursery.

The study aims to answer the following questions:

  • What are the current noise levels in the regional special care nursery as measured by the Drager sound ear, and how do these levels compare to the recommended noise guidelines for neonatal care (American Academy of Paediatrics and WHO)?
  • What educational interventions can effectively raise awareness among staff and parents/visitors regarding the impacts of noise on neonates?
  • How do noise minimisation strategies, implemented through staff training and visual signage, influence the overall noise levels in the nursery?
  • What changes in noise levels can be observed after the implementation of the educational intervention and the adoption of noise reduction strategies?

The findings will serve as a basis for implementing targeted educational interventions aimed at reducing noise exposure and enhancing the care environment for neonates.

About you

  • Any Albury Wodonga Health (AWH) employees who/ have spent time in the special care nursery
  • Parents/visitors of neonates who/ have spent time in the special care nursery

What's involved

Your participation in the research will involve completing an anonymous online questionnaire asking about your understanding of the impact of noise on neonates. Completing the questionnaire will take approximately 10-15 minutes. The questionnaire includes 6 close-ended questions about your opinion on the noise levels within the nursery, the main sources of noise and the respondent’s perception of their contribution to the noise levels. A question on whether you have received any training or information on the noise levels within the nursery will also be included.

For more information and to continue with your interest in participating in this project, please download and read the participant information sheet. This will provide a link at the end for you to register your interest.

The information provided will remain confidential and consent can be withdrawn at any time. Please note we will not require any information that identifies your workplace.

Submit your Expression of interest to participate