The World Health Organization recommends hospitals keep the noise level in ICUs below 35 decibels on average. But many hospital ICUs significantly exceed these levels, according to an article on the Becker's Hospital Review website.
Research presented at the 2016 European Anaesthesiology Congress found the average decibels in the ICU to be 52.8 at night and 54.6 during the day.
Recorded peaks reaching above 80 decibels were recorded an average of 14 times per day, with the loudest peak reaching 101.1 decibels.
Researchers suggested solutions including providing patients with ear plugs.
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