As loud as a construction site: Noise levels in the emergency department

Abstract

Background: The Emergency Department (ED), while being an integral part of healthcare systems, frequently experiences noise levels surpassing the World Health Organization's recommended thresholds. These excessive noise levels could considerably compromise the safety and wellbeing of both patients and staff.

Methods: To evaluate noise levels throughout the ED environment, this study utilized dosimeters to measure noise levels over a 24-hour period in six distinct locations, including the ED Waiting Room and Treatment areas.

Results: The study found that noise exceeded the WHO recommendations in all six areas of the ED for the entire 24-hour period. Peak noise levels were recorded up to 102.8 dB, which is as loud as noise levels at a construction site. The ED Waiting Room exhibited high peak and average noise levels, indicating the urgent need for quality improvement efforts. These findings align with the results of previous research, thereby suggesting that noise levels in the ED have remained problematic for more than a decade.

Conclusion: The findings of this study underscore the importance of addressing excessive noise levels in the ED to create a safe and therapeutic hospital environment for both patients and staff. Healthcare organizations must implement proactive measures to address excessive noise levels in the ED.

Keywords: Environment; Hospitals; Noise; Patient experience; Patients; Safety.