Sensory exposure of neonates in single-room environments (SENSE): an observational study of light

Objectives To measure the internal and external light exposure of incubators and open cots in an Australian single-room configured neonatal unit and compare findings to current recommendations. Methods Light meters were placed in the internal and external environment of incubators and open cots within occupied single rooms in a tertiary-level neonatal unit between 15 September and 28 October 2015. Data were recorded in one-second increments over a minimum of 48 hours per room. Results Internal median light in incubators and open cots predominantly fell below 50 lux, with low amplitude diurnal cycling. Incubator covers substantially reduced external light exposure, contributing to very low light conditions (