Hospitals are supposed to help patients to relax and recover, but in reality, noise levels may prevent patients from getting rest. Now the Montefiore Hospital in New York has initiated a new program to reduce noise levels and help patients sleep better.
The sources of noise were abundant at Montefiore, including ringing telephones, blaring televisions, hospital alarms, intercom announcements, and carts balancing on squeaky wheels.
"Studies have shown there is a relationship between excessive noise and a slowing of the healing process. Noise also contributes to increasing stress and anxiety levels." Nurse Margaret Amato-Hayes, clinical director of nursing at Montefiore, said. "Noise is not only an irritant, but an obstacle to healing."
The hospital is trying out a new program called "Silent Hospitals Help Healing" (SHHH).
"All equipment, from IV poles to medication carts, is sent for lubrication and inspection," Nurse Elodia Mercier, the administrative nurse manager who implemented the program, said.
In addition to inspecting equipment, nursing managers are monitoring hallway conversations. Staff is advised to turn phones and beepers on vibrate. Even the intercom volume was decreased.
"The effects of SHHH have been remarkable," Mercier said. Noise within her unit was as high as 78 decibels. Now the levels are around 55, similar to that of a library. Overall decibels levels have fallen significantly since the program started.
"Within two weeks, patients said they were sleeping better, and staff told us they felt less stressed," Mercier said.
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