Comparison of amount of noise and elimination strategies for noise in neonatal intensive care units of government and private hospitals in the Jodhpur district of India.

This article examines noise levels in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) of private and government hospitals in Jodhpur district, India, highlighting their impact on preterm and sick neonates. A 48-hour noise survey using A-weighted equivalent continuous sound level (Leq dBA) measurements found that all NICUs exceeded the recommended 45 dBA limit, with government hospitals exhibiting significantly higher noise levels and more frequent loud alarm peaks than private hospitals. Differences in noise control strategies were noted, with private hospitals implementing behavior modifications such as reducing alarm volumes and limiting staff presence, while none of the hospitals used soundproofing or ear protection devices. The study suggests that low-cost behavioral interventions can effectively reduce NICU noise and emphasizes the potential role of audiologists in noise management to support neonatal development.