Creating Quiet – Sound Masking in Patient Rooms

Noise levels in hospitals have become an increasing concern as more noise sources have been added to the hospital environment. These sources range from noisy medical instruments to the layout of patient rooms as they relate to the nurses’ station.Numerous studies have evaluated the impact of noise levels on the hospital environment, but few have considered the type of noise source. The sound of a fan is different from an alarm, even if they measure at the same sound levels. Without clear objectives on the type of noises studied, there is a false impression that a quieter environment is always a better one.