Measuring peak daytime noise levels at outpatient and inpatient departments in a medical college and noise related complaints in personnel posted in these departments

Abstract

Introduction: In a sensitive environment like a healthcare facility, acoustic comfort is not merely a luxury but a clinical necessity. Noise induces annoyance and increases the probability of medical errors.  To devise effective reduction strategies and optimize workforce deployment, site-specific data is essential. 

Objectives: To find out the level of noise in different areas of NRS Medical College during a pre-specified time interval of a working day, the noise sensitivity of posted staff and noise-related health problems among them.

Methods: It was an observational descriptive study in cross sectional design done in Nil Ratan Sircar Medical College and hospital during 24^th February 2025 to 5^th March 2025. A total enumeration of different hospital areas was done and areas with restricted entry like operation theatres were excluded. The Noise Tracker app was used to record average sound levels of continuous 5 mins (at 11 am & 12 pm). Staff posted at respective areas were selected purposively and consenting participants were interviewed with a predesigned schedule containing questions regarding background characteristics, presence of perceived noise-related health problems and Noise Sensitivity. Comparison between categorical variables between groups was done using Chi-square tests. The study was undertaken following proper approvals and oral informed consent.

Results: The OPD areas show a median noise level of 71 dB (Range: 60 dB ~ 80 dB). The IPD areas exhibit a median of ~63 dB (52 dB - 74 dB). More than half (55.6% at 11am & 69.4% at 12 noon) of the wards were above recommended noise level of 65dB at both time points. The commonest age group among participants was 20-30 years (40.4%), 66% were females, 51.1% were staff nurses. Self-reported headaches were slightly higher in participants exposed less noisy areas and annoyance showed no significant association with noise. Median noise sensitivity score of staff was 17 (15-20). A significant number of staff with high noise sensitivity were posted at relatively noisy wards.

Conclusion: The findings of the present study emphasize the need for routine noise monitoring, administrative regulation, and low-cost preventive interventions to improve the acoustic environment of hospitals.