Comparing light and noise levels before and after a NICU change of design

Abstract

Objective: To compare light and sound levels before and after a change of design and evaluate these levels considering recommended NICU standards.

Study design: A pre-test/post-test design. Light and sound levels were compared between the former open ward (OW) NICU of 34 beds and the current 40-bed unit composed of both pods and single-family rooms (SFR).

Result: Light levels were significantly higher in the pod/SFR unit for all levels of care, days of the week and time of the day. These findings could be attributed to the number and configuration of windows in the new pod/SFR unit allowing for more daylight entry compared to the OW. Sound levels were significantly lower in the current NICU (pod/SFR) compared to the former OW.

Conclusion: Following the change of design, the pod/SFR unit are less noisy than the OW, although light levels are higher indicating the necessity to measure light levels.