In a sampling at random intervals over a 24-hour period of the level of noise (measured on a sound level meter) generated by mechanical equipment, nursing measures, and conversation of staff and visitors in a seven-bed acute care unit and a 17-bed recovery room, the greatest variability in noise was found in the recovery room. Noire was found to be related to number of staff at the bedside. Differences in mean noise levels according to time and potential effects of noise on sleep are also discussed, and implications and recommendations for nursing in acute care areas are included.
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Woods et al. (1974) studied this question.