Authors: Prajakta Patil*, Shashikant Mhashal, Rushikesh Harkut
It is known that high noise levels can be harmful to preterm infants, causing physiological and psychological disorders. The ambience of NICU should have sound or noise levels within safe limits for the healthy development of preterm infants. The aim of present study was to create awareness about the effect of ambient noise in NICU on infant hearing. Study was done in three local NICUs’ and four private nursing homes, obstetrics service. The study population included all babies born at the three local NICUs’ and four private nursing homes. Noise levels and questionnaire Sound level meter was used to determine the sound level. Exposure to excessive noise in NICU may result in high frequency hearing loss in association with other risk factors (co morbid conditions) and drugs (rampant use of not needed Neosporin powder) may result in cochlear damage. Paediatrician is encouraged to monitor sound in the NICU as proposed by US (EPA) noise level of more than 45db is of concern. Keywords: Ambient noise, NICU, Hearing, Sound level meter, Cochlear
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