Excessive Exposure of Sick Neonates to
Sound During Transport
Excessive Sound during Air Transport
Thirty-eight neonatal transports were
selected for study between March 2000 and January 2001 in Christchurch, New
Zealand. Noise on ambulance, fixed wing aircraft, and rotorcraft were measured
using a calibrated sound meter placed within the incubator. A standard
transportation documentation sheet was also used to correlate flight events
with time logged on the sound meter.
Maximum sound levels audible to the human
ear (Lmax) were recorded in decibels (dB) as well as peak levels reached
outside frequencies heard by the human ear (Peak "C"). Lmax levels for fixed
wing and helicopter were 83.3 dB (2.3) and 84.1 dB (2.10) respectively. Peak
"C" levels reached 107.9 dB (6.9) and 121 dB (0.4). Brief, extremely high noise
levels occurred during take off and when the internal air compressor for the
transport ventilator was started.
Sound and vibration are known causes of
increased oxygen consumption, fatigue and stress in adults. International
guidelines recommend that sound levels during transport do not exceed 60 dB.
Commercially available ear protection in neonatal units eases sound by only
7dB. Exposure of infants to sound during medical transport must be modified for
better immediate and long-term outcomes. For more information, see:
Buckland L, Austin N, Jackson A & Inder
T. (2003). Excessive exposure of sick neonates to sound during transport.
Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed, 88, F513-F516. [review prepared by
Laura Rosenthal BSN RN CCRN] |
