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Editorial
. 2023 Oct;131(4):649-652.
doi: 10.1016/j.bja.2023.07.003. Epub 2023 Aug 1.

Auditory roughness: a delicate balance

Kendall J Burdick  1 , Sean Yang  2 , Andres E Lopez  3 , Connor Wessel  3 , Michael Schutz  3 , Joseph J Schlesinger  4
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Free article
Editorial

Auditory roughness: a delicate balance

Kendall J Burdick et al. Br J Anaesth. 2023 Oct.
Free article

Abstract

Auditory roughness in medical alarm sounds is an important design attribute, and has been shown to impact user performance and perception. While roughness can assist in decreased signal-to-noise ratios (perceived loudness) and communicate urgency, it might also impact patient recovery. Therefore, considerations of neuroscience correlates, music theory, and patient impact are critical aspects to investigate in order to optimise alarm design.

Keywords: alarm fatigue; auditory roughness; medical alarms; patient safety; urgency.

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