Implementation of quiet time for noise reduction on a medical-surgical unit

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this evidence-based investigation is to determine the efficacy of a quiet-time intervention to reduce noise in the hospital setting. BACKGROUND: For many reasons, noise continues to increase in the hospital setting. METHODS: In a descriptive comparative design, using a convenience sample of hospitalized patients, 80 patients were assessed on their perceptions of noise using the Patient Survey on Noise During Hospital Stay. RESULTS: Data revealed favorable responses to quiet time, with 70% of subjects reporting quiet-time intervention to be effective in reducing noise. Sixty percent of participants felt that 1 hour of quiet time helped to facilitate a quieter, more restful environment for the whole day. CONCLUSION: A quiet-time intervention is effective in addressing patient perception of noise while in the acute care hospital setting